It Starts Small

⁶ But now Timothy has come to us from you and brought us good news about your faith and love. He reported that you always have good memories of us and that you long to see us, as we also long to see you. ⁷ Therefore, brothers and sisters, in all our distress and affliction, we were encouraged about you through your faith. ⁸ For now we live, if you stand firm in the Lord. ⁹ How can we thank God for you in return for all the joy we experience before our God because of you, ¹⁰ as we pray very earnestly night and day to see you face to face and to complete what is lacking in your faith?¹¹ Now may our God and Father himself, and our Lord Jesus, direct our way to you. ¹² And may the Lord cause you to increase and overflow with love for one another and for everyone, just as we do for you. ¹³ May he make your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints. Amen.

1 Thessalonians 3:6-13

Timothy brought a triumphant report that filled hearts with joy. The Thessalonians were flourishing, their faith and love blossoming like radiant flowers in spring. They warmly returned Paul’s deep affection, creating an unbreakable bond of spiritual kinship. In the past few chapters, we’ve delved into the powerful concept of modeling. Disciples, like eager shadows, follow the footsteps of their mentors, embodying the age-old adage, “like father, like son.” Paul exemplified Christian love and kindness, pouring out his soul for others to see. The Thessalonians, touched by Paul’s genuine care, learned to mirror that same heartfelt compassion in their own lives.

His example should ignite a fire within us to be a shining beacon for others. It passionately reminds us that we truly do reap what we sow. Typically, when you extend kindness to others, it transforms into a beautiful cycle of reciprocity. We should not be compassionate solely for the heartfelt return of kindness. However, it undoubtedly offers a sweet reward. This reward adds to our efforts. Have you considered if there are souls who would miss you if you were absent for an extended time? They might eagerly await your return. If not, perhaps it’s time to unleash your friendliness!

Paul’s team found solace amidst their trials, enveloped in a fierce determination that defied their affliction. Paul endured relentless persecution, and one might marvel at his unwavering perseverance through such harrowing experiences. Here, we uncover the powerful “secret” that fueled Paul’s indomitable spirit during the darkest days: an unyielding love for others. He didn’t embark on this journey for his own gain; wealth eluded him, and fame only brought chaos and danger. Yet, in the face of riots, Paul pressed on. He was driven by a passion that transcended personal ambition despite the relentless target on his back.

He heard that his work was far from futile. It created ripples of change destined to echo through eternity. This ignited a fierce determination within him. This motivation arose during those moments when surrendering to discouragement seemed like the easy way out.

¹⁸ For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is going to be revealed to us.

Romans 8:18

Paul was not motivated only by the hope for future experiences. His drive came from the difference he could make in the lives of others.

For now we live, if you stand firm in the Lord.

Paul’s own life could be brimming with joy and exhilaration, ignited by the sight of their flourishing success. His remarkable example embodies the pure essence of selfless living, radiating a powerful lesson in love and devotion.

In verse 5, we witness Paul’s heartfelt gratitude to God for the incredible news he received. He refused to take credit for the Thessalonians’ triumph. He avoided attributing their success to himself, Timothy, or anyone else. Instead, he directed the praise to where it truly belonged. Paul’s passion was ignited by his profound gratitude for the Thessalonians’ remarkable spiritual growth. This gratitude filled his heart with joy and inspiration.

When was the last time you fervently thanked God for the incredible spiritual growth of someone else? For many of us, it may feel like an eternity. While it’s essential to express gratitude for our physical blessings—like nourishing food, a stable job, a warm home, passing exams, and good health—it’s crucial to remember something else. Spiritual growth and triumphs should truly ignite our passion! If those moments of divine awakening in others stir your soul, you will eagerly pray for that spiritual growth. You will also actively nurture it in the lives of those around you.

Along with that thought, you can truly feel the profound joy that ignites in Paul’s heart. His true delight comes from witnessing others flourish in their spiritual journeys. Isn’t that exhilarating? Do you yearn to embrace a vibrant, joyful life? The world may urge you to accumulate wealth, embark on thrilling adventures, and cruise in luxurious cars. But God beckons you to serve Him and be His instrument. Some paintbrushes may only touch the surface of mere outhouses, while others bring masterpieces like Picassos to life. Which one resonates with your spirit? Remember, God can transform us into creators of breathtaking art. Are you ready to allow Him to wield your life for His extraordinary purposes?

we pray very earnestly night and day

If we are genuinely concerned for others, simply praying for them once or even occasionally falls woefully short. Paul’s team dedicated themselves to prayer day and night, pouring their hearts out to God. If we truly desire to be instruments of His purpose, it begins on our knees. We must fervently seek His will. What profound lessons can we glean from the depths of Paul’s heartfelt prayer for the Thessalonians?

• Let your prayers soar beyond the confines of material desires. Focus instead on the profound power of God. Let your prayers draw on His transformative potential.
• God’s divine hand nurtures growth within us. It ignites flames of love. These flames of holiness illuminate our lives.
• Embrace the beauty of sharing your heartfelt prayers with those you cherish. Knowing that someone is fervently praying for them can be a mighty source of encouragement.
• If you yearn for genuine change in the lives of others, speak up in fervent supplication. Beseech God to intervene and enact His powerful will.
• Remember, Jesus will return! Let this profound truth grip our souls as we pray. Our time is fleeting. The urgency of our petitions cannot be overstated.

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Discussion Questions

• What report did Timothy bring to Paul?
• How did the Thessalonians think of Paul and his team?
• What is one thing that kept Paul’s ministry team going in the midst of their afflictions?
• What does Paul mean, “for now we really live…”?
• Why was Paul so thankful? How did he feel about the report that Timothy brought?
• What can we learn about prayer from their examples?
• What can we learn about how to treat others?
• What can we learn about thanksgiving? Joy? Suffering? Ministry? Teamwork?
• How could they grow in love? What “wish” did Paul have for the Thessalonians?

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