Amos 6, 1 Thessalonians 3

Amos 6

Even things that once stood as pure and innocent can fall. Paul gives us this reminder in his letter to the church at Corinth, “So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall.”

The prophet Amos writes, “Fallen is Virgin Israel, never to rise again, deserted in her own land, with no one to lift her up.” This is a sad moment. It’s a word picture of something that was pure. In these moments of being stripped away from all that they were before God, God gives them this promise, “Seek me and you will live”.

Father, may we seek you. May we walk in your Spirit. May we seek your counsel. May we trust in your truth. “The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever.” - Isaiah 40:8

1 Thessalonians 3

There is no doubt that the Thessalonians were going through a season of persecution and struggle because of their faith. In the beginning, Paul reminded them that this affliction was to be expected, and hoped they had remembered his words as they were in it. He was encouraging them to press on and not be distracted, overwhelmed, or feel helpless in it. It came to the point where he felt he should send Timothy to encourage them (and probably do a little consulting along the way).

But what did he find? He found the Thessalonians pressing on. Although not perfect, they were found faithful. What an encouragement to Paul. After laboring so much, pouring into these churches, leading, correcting, and leading again (and correcting again). He found one faithful! And he rejoiced. He celebrated in the moment.

He wrote them, “Therefore, brothers, in all our distress and persecution we were encouraged about you because of your faith. For now WE really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord. How can WE thank God enough for you in return for all the joy WE have in the presence of our God because of you?”

Paul, in turn, was encouraged enough by their faithfulness, that it strengthened HIM! The Thessalonians were a blessing and ministered to the very heart of Paul. I hope the Thessalonians got that in his words. I hope they understood what he was saying to them. I hope we do today as well.

By our faithfulness, we encourage one another. Press on Alex. Press on Mike. Press on Tray. While I, in no way, consider myself equal to Paul in any stretch of the imagination, I am incredibly encouraged by your hearts, by your faithfulness, by your love, by your commitment, and by your passion. Thank you. Today as I read these words, YOU are an encouragement to me.