Today you should read: 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12
After reading the passage there are three specific things we need to focus on. First, Paul’s point in going to Thessalonica was to spread the Gospel. His primary goal was to tell others about Jesus no matter what happened to him (v. 1-4a). As Christians, this should be our primary mission. I know it is more difficult amidst the Coronavirus, but there may be opportunities through technology to share the Gospel. We all know someone around us who is lost (family, close friends, etc.). With that being said, be praying for one person you can share the Gospel with this week.
Second, Paul did not share the Gospel for earthly gain (v. 4b-8). Listen, sharing the Gospel is one of the most humbling things you can do, because you are taking the focus off of yourself and placing the focus on God. What would it be like if we woke up every morning and said, “God, what do you want from me today?”, instead of the usual, “Here is the list of things to accomplish today” or “Here is what I want to do today”. I am not saying those things are bad, but often when we have a list of things to do, we tend to focus entirely on the list and do not want any distractions going on: even possible Gospel conversations. In the fast paced world we live in, we need to slow down and ask God, “How can I best serve You today?”.
The last thing we need to focus on is how Paul was not a burden to anyone (v. 9-12). One thing the Thessalonians struggled with was idleness, meaning they were lazy. Paul is reminding them that, as Christians, we should not let anything come in the way of our witness. Paul worked to pay for the things he needed, so that he could be a better witness to them. God has called us to work (unless not physically able), and that is what we should do. If you haven’t gotten the chance to listen to the God At Work series we did at CPC, I recommend going back and listening to it. It is super helpful in understanding how work and a relationship with God correlate.
All in all, who can you tell about Jesus this week? How can you best serve God in your life?
By: Brice Stockton — Student Ministry Apprentice
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