Scripture –
2 Thessalonians 2:16- Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.
Observation –
Paul is finishing this section of his second letter to the church at Corinth by encouraging them to stand firm in their faith knowing that God who loves us through His grace gives us hope and comfort in Jesus. The hope we have in the return of Christ provides not only and eternal comfort but also comfort to our hearts now. The grace we have received and the hope and comfort we have in Christ is the foundation for our good works and words to point others to Jesus.
Application –
God loves us so much that He sent His one and only Son Jesus to the cross and overcome death on our behalf so we can have a way to know God and thereby make Him known! There is nothing we can do to earn this. God’s gift is by grace alone when we place our faith in the name of Jesus. This is the hope in the gospel that we must share to a world that is desperate to hear the truth! Like the Thessalonians we are in uncertain times and many are confused and hurting. We need to be there with an encouraging word and/or that we can pray will be received. Our faith has to be lived out in our deeds not for our salvation, but so others in great need can see the love of Jesus that will extend his glory. There are many things that break God’s heart and wherever your heart breaks is where the Spirit can lead to serve in effective ministry. We must humbly serve and share to point others to him in love.
Prayer-
Father,
Thank you for your love, grace in mercy in sending Jesus for our salvation so we can be reconciled to you. Let the power of the Spirit guide me in comfort to point people to you in my actions and words to glorify you. Have my hope be in faith of your return and draw me closer to you so I see you clear and others can see you through me.