2 Thessalonians, Day 3
2 Thessalonians 3
The Word, the Walk, and the Writing
When reading the letters of Paul, has it ever occurred to you that these are — letters from Paul? In this age of emails and tweets, the art of letter writing has faded into oblivion with the 8-track tape and yellow rubber raincoats. We look at these letters and consider them books because of their length and depth, but letters they were, and we get to read them.
As a writer, I can enjoy the privilege of having the last word in a glorious monologue, a one-way conversation. Paul, guided by the Holy Spirit, was a master at letter writing. He would write about one or more doctrinal issues and apply them to life, then conclude his letters with warnings, greetings, and exhortations. When Paul got the last word, you listened.
Paul told the Thessalonian believers to stand firm in light of the suffering they faced. He knew their faith was genuine but would be tested, and his final words built on that foundation of faith. His words ring true in every generation, and there are lessons we can learn about walking in faith during troublous times.
Paul begins his final thoughts by asking for prayer so he could spread the Word and see the same fruit in others that he saw in the Thessalonians (Verses 1 – 5). Despite the presence of unbelief and the persecution it brings, he continued to faithfully proclaim the Gospel. When ministry is hard, preachers need our prayers more than ever. And we need courage, too.
He also warned them not to just mooch off the kindness of others and interfere in others’ lives, but to mind their own business (Verses 6 – 15). Faith isn’t waiting for God to stock the refrigerator when you have the ability to earn your keep. It can be tempting to stop struggling during hard times, or to just hang around waiting for the Lord to return, but that cannot be used as an excuse for idleness. Faithful work is a sign of a faithful walk.
These words of prophecy and exhortation are sealed with the stamp of authority: Paul’s own handwriting (Verse 17). The apostle wanted to make sure the Thessalonians (and we) understood that what he was writing was approved and had the authority and practicality of the other Sacred Writings.
During hard times, do you feel weak and turn inward? Are you concerned about the spread of the Gospel, even when circumstances seem dire and the fruit scarce? Do you find it easier to balk at work than to walk to work? Do you accept the authority of God’s Word, even when it’s difficult to be obedient? The Lord will provide peace and grace for you if you stand firm (Verses 16 – 17), and in that way, He will help you to stand firm. In every circumstance, let God have the last word!
Standing on the promises,
Alan Allegra