One of the secrets of Paul's successful church planting was his continuing interest in the new churches and his prayers for them. His prayer life must have been disciplined and consistent. His example lives on for us today. Paul not only prayed for them but he also visited the churches. In this case because of his concern for them, he sent Timothy, one of his team members, to report on their welfare. Timothy was to encourage and strengthen them, too (3:2). Timothy's report thrilled Paul. This time it was Paul who was encouraged (v.7). He seemed to have been under stress just then and the good news from Thessalonica was uplifting to him in every way. The last three verses of Chapter three form a prayer. They revealed beautifully Paul's heart as a pastor. He told them of his desire for them to grow in Christ like love toward each other and for everyone else (v.12) He prayed that they would grow stronger in the Lord. This should be the desire of every pastor for his people and also be the aim of every believer. The greatest need in our churches is certainly in the area of love for each other. That would prevent criticism. It would stop jealousy and it would make us more like Christ. Isn't that worth aiming at? Sometimes the Spirit of God will convict us of our lack of love in our speech or our behaviour. Listen always to the Spirit's voice. He knows our individual needs. His only desire is to reproduce Jesus Christ in our lives. Are we letting Him do what He has come to do ? |
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