1 Thessalonians: Real Faith in a Returning KingSampel

### Everyone has a part to play in the mission of God Paul expresses his love and care for the Thessalonians. Although he wished that he could be with them, he says that Satan hindered them from coming back. And yet, we see that what Satan meant for evil, God used for good. Paul was unable to visit the Thessalonians again, yet when Timothy tells him about how faithful they have been, he is full of joy and encouragement. We see Paul’s intense love for the Thessalonians play out here. His concern for them is so great that he could no longer just sit around and hope. Since he knew that they were experiencing persecution, he had to take action and sent Timothy to check on them and care for them spiritually. Scripture is clear; suffering does not mean God is angry or displeased with you. Nor does it mean you are lacking in faith. Almost all of the giants of our faith through Scripture suffered. Jesus himself was persecuted and killed. It’s why Paul tells us in 2 Timothy 3:12 that hardships will come the way of all who want to live a godly life. The Thessalonians have not given up hope. They have continued to endure through their suffering, and Paul is glad. Paul encourages the Thessalonians to continue and even increase their love for one another. After all, God is love. Faith in him should motivate love for others in the same way that God has loved us. Again, for Paul, following Jesus is an active lived experience, not simply intellectual belief. Following Jesus is a call to love so that others can experience his love through us. Love isn’t passive, it’s active. Today’s reflection: What is one thing you can do today to proactively love someone?