Finally, when we could stand it no longer, we decided to stay alone in Athens, and we sent Timothy to visit you. He is our brother and God’s co-worker in proclaiming the Good News of Christ. We sent him to strengthen you, to encourage you in your faith, and to keep you from being shaken by the troubles you were going through. But you know that we are destined for such troubles. Even while we were with you, we warned you that troubles would soon come—and they did, as you well know. That is why, when I could bear it no longer, I sent Timothy to find out whether your faith was still strong. I was afraid that the tempter had gotten the best of you and that our work had been useless. But now Timothy has just returned, bringing us good news about your faith and love. He reports that you always remember our visit with joy and that you want to see us as much as we want to see you. So we have been greatly encouraged in the midst of our troubles and suffering, dear brothers and sisters, because you have remained strong in your faith. It gives us new life to know that you are standing firm in the Lord. How we thank God for you! Because of you we have great joy as we enter God’s presence.
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Compare All Versions: 1 Thessalonians 3:1-9
5 Days
Paul’s encouraging letter to the Thessalonian church is a beautiful treatise on unity, sanctification, and the coming of Christ. 1 Thessalonians reminds us to remain sober and steadfast, hopefully anticipating the return of the Lord.
7 Days
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14 Days
The letter to Titus was written by the apostle Paul to teach and encourage his ‘spiritual son.’ His lessons are valuable to this day. This reading plan goes through the letter to Titus step by step to see what God’s Word has to say for our lives.
29 Days
"Signal Fire" is a devotional through 1 Thessalonians, showing how our lives are meant to shine as indicators of God’s love. Like a fire seen from a distance, faith that is lived out brings direction, warmth, and hope. Paul celebrates the Thessalonians because their faith, love, and endurance became a signal fire to others, spreading well beyond their city. This devotional invites us to tend the flame God has placed in us, so our everyday lives point people to Jesus and burn brightly with the hope of His return.
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