NT Fire Starters – Day 288: 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12
READ: 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12
THINK: We all know that life can be unfair. For Jesus’ followers, it can seem even more so in a world that persistently defies God and opposes His people. But God’s Word assures us that in the end, justice will be served and everything will work out right for those who know God. While that should give comfort as we endure difficulty and opposition, it should also stir in us compassion for those who don’t know God and are headed their own way toward judgment and destruction. While there is still time, those of us who know the way to God and have experienced His mercy must do all we can to lead others to the truth, regardless of the injustices we may encounter in the process.
RESPOND: What does it take for your faith in God to keep growing and your love for others to continually increase (v. 3)? How can this happen through “persecutions and trials” (v. 4)? In what way did the Thessalonians’ faithfulness to God through intense persecution demonstrate God’s justice? (See 1:5 note.) As a result, how would God respond to the Thessalonians and how would He respond to their persecutors (cf. v. 6-7)? When will God demonstrate both sides of His justice–salvation for His people and judgment on His enemies? (See 1:7 note.) What will ultimately become of those who do not know God? (See 1:9 note.) When and how will Christ ultimately “be glorified in his holy people”? (See 1:10 note.) In what way will Jesus’ followers be glorified in Him (v. 12)?
PRAY: Ask God to help your faith in Him to grow and your love for Him and others to increase. Pray that you recognize and capitalize on opportunities He provides for you to grow spiritually, particularly through difficult times. Give God thanks for His justice that ultimately will reward faithfulness and punish wickedness.
ACT: Find a practical way to demonstrate faith in God today. Take a bold step and do or say something to honor Christ–something you might not have attempted without this challenge. Also, find a practical way to demonstrate God’s love to someone who already follows Jesus and to someone who doesn’t.