Year 8, Day 288: 1 Thessalonians 3-4

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The next two chapters of 1 Thessalonians seem to revolve around this idea of encouragement.  Relationships are hard.  Sometimes we get on each other’s nerves.  Other times we worry about the people we care about, especially when they are apart from us.  Other times we worry about what the future may hold until it comes.  In all of these occasions, we need encouragement.

In 1 Thessalonians 3, Paul explains that after leaving Thessalonica they encountered persecution.  In the midst of their trial, they thought that the Thessalonians might hear about the trial.  Because of this, they sent Timothy to Thessalonica.

Additionally, because of their own persecution, Paul worries about the Thessalonians.  He fears that life may have gotten to them as well. Timothy goes to Thessalonica to reassure Paul.  He wants to make sure that the persecution is worth it.  In the midst of his troubles, he needs to be uplifted by seeing the fruit of the work.  The encouragement helps Paul deal with his current situation.

The next thing that the people need to be encouraged about is regarding love.  Fortunately, Timothy reports to Paul that the Thessalonians are masters of showing love to one another.  Paul gives them a reminder of what the godly life is.  Paul also takes the time to remind them that their example is being spread all throughout Macedonia.  Paul’s encouragement not only serves as a reminder about how to live, but also as a reminder that how we live is observed by others.

Finally, Paul reminds the Thessalonians that we should be encouraged by our future hope.  God gives us eternal life.  He promises us the resurrection from the dead.  We will live with God eternally in his grace, love, and peace.  This should give us great encouragement.  When we are persecuted, we can think of the resurrection to come.  When we are tempted, we can think of the resurrection to come.  When we are worried, we can think of the resurrection to come.  Our future hope in God is all the encouragement that we need.

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