O: When Paul ministered to the Thessalonians, he prayed for them everyday. He loved them deeply, and he was primarily concerned with their "faith and love" and was overjoyed to hear good news from Timothy-that the church in Thessolonica was doing well and was growing in faith. Upon hearing this, Paul said something that just stuck out so openly and gave me an idea of how much Paul actually cared for those who he ministered to-my favorite part of this passage is "for now we really live, if you stand firm in the Lord." I mean, Paul's life was dedicated to building upon the foundation of Christ, and to see it bear fruit was nothing short of pure joy. He maintains a joyous statement that is a comfort in it's own right-that he was comforted by the news from Timothy regarding the Thessalonians despite his afflictions at the current moment.
But, not only does this reaction show Paul's true feelings, but it reflects the heart and hard work he put into ministering to the Thessalonians. Daily prayer is no easy feat, and neither is planting churches. Paul perhaps may have had an inkling of the value of a person's soul. And because he knew how wonderfully miraculous it was for anyone to even be saved, he reacted accordingly upon hearing how Christ transformed those whom he prayed and worked with.
(A:) How many times do we see people actually taking steps towards growing in their faith? I mean, honestly-In my personal experience, I don't see it that often, and even when I do-my reaction is a mild "Oh, praise God!" but Paul goes as far as to say that life is worth living because the people he invested so heavily in were making progress in their spiritual life. On one particular occasion, however of remembering the fruits of mentoring those on my junior high praise team-the fruit was visible, and well worth the hard work and struggle. They were (and still are) my joy of being on praise team, that people were growing and are now spiritual leaders. I am so proud of them, and they are forever a comfort-despite the frustration they may cause me occasionally, as the growth should never stop.
I think that if I put the time and energy to pursue those around me-teaching them to observe all that Christ commanded, I would face a heck of a lot of trouble and suffering. But, the fruit that it bears would be worth it. I can see that God wants me to have the same joy and passion in investing myself in His work-because the rewards yield eternal dividends. Of course, as He commands it-whether the reward was there or not, I know I should do as He says. The reward is only a bonus!
(O:) But Paul does not stop to pat himself on the back or to announce that he's apostle no. 1 or something. But, he immediately goes on to say that there is no thanks that could be enough to properly thank the Lord for the great work that was happening amongst the Thessalonians.
(A:) How great is that reaction? I mean, it's so easy to take credit for something that we were a part of-Discipleship, ministry, whatever. Glory to the one who takes part in something successful! But, here was a man who suffered greatly for the sake of Christ, and praise God every time something wonderful happened. Here, Paul's heart is clearly seen to be one of a servant, paying proper dues to the King, when he knew that it was a privilege just to even witness such things.
To be honest, I don't think there have been a lot of great things happening in my life. Probably because I'm struggling to get back on my feet-but, I know that all things that are good come from Him. Even the fact that I'm able to stand up again, attempting to remain firm in Christ is a wonderful thing, that would never be possible without the aid of God. So I'll thank Him accordingly to all the things He's done in my life-because despite trouble, there is always reason to rejoice, even if it's just that one thing which always remains: Which is God in His steadfast faithfulness, love, mercy, and grace (which, incidentally, is the biggest reason of rejoicing, anyhow!).
P: Father, to be joyful in Your presence, when life feels desolate or when life is just one huge party-You're always to be praised and thanked, for who You are. I'm sorry for putting off my time with You again-it's not as late as usual, but I'm just glad it even happened tonight. Thanks for speaking to me, yet again! God, I see no reason to throw up my hands and sing, but at the same time, I know that mentality is so off. Would you show me that I should always be rejoicing (Rejoice, always! 1 Thess. 5:16) in You and in those whom You work in? Forgive me for my aloof attitude-I want to be filled with joy for You and for those around me-would You give me that heart? It's one thing to read it, believe it, and try to live it out-but I know I can never genuinely feel joyous without understanding that which what Christ did for me, and still does, and does in others. So remind me-remind me of the cross, so that I can be real with You and real with others-with a joy that stems from knowing You. Because I want to really live, standing firm in You. Take all these things-I believe it would be pleasing before You and glorifying as well. In Christ, amen.
Soli Deo Gloria
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