Scripture:
1 Thessalonians 3:11-13 – Now may our God and Father himself, and our Lord Jesus, direct our way to you and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as well we do for you, so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.
Observation:
Paul is praying for and encouraging the believers in the church at Thessalonica. Paul is praying for:
– an opportunity to return and continue ministry with the Thessalonians
– the Thessalonians to grow in their love for each other and everyone through Jesus
– the love of Jesus to make their hearts without blame before God as Jesus will return
Application:
Paul’s prayer to the Thessalonians definitely should be encouraging to any believer. This provides a great model that the gospel is not only about salvation but our ongoing walk with Jesus to finish strong when He returns. The good news of the gospel promise as it is lived out is that Jesus, through the power of the Spirit, is the one to increase our love for him and others. When we surrender to Jesus and allow him to work, our hearts will be filled with love and without blame. From salvation through our growth to be more like a reflection of Christ, it is all through grace. Everyone will stand before God to give an account when Jesus returns.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for your love for us and the power that it has to change hearts and lives. Let me surrender everything to you and walk in faith where my love grows for you and others so people can see you through me.