YOU ARE OUR GLORY AND JOY
1 Thessalonians 2:13-20 Key Verse: 2:20
1. Suffering for the sake of world mission (13-16).
The Thessalonians could grow spiritually and boldly challenge their godless culture because they knew what Paul preached to them was the word of God. When they believed the living words of God and lay deep roots in God's word, they could overcome any persecution. The Jews were behind the persecution. They did not accept the gospel as God's word and, as such, were opposing God's will, incurring his wrath.
2. You are our glory and joy (17-20).
Paul cared for the Thessalonians as a mother cares for her children. Now they were like orphans, separated from Paul. Paul had an intense longing for them, but each time he tried to see them, he was prevented. The bond of love that Jesus places in our hearts when we serve his people cannot be broken by anything in this world. We long for the day when Christ comes again, and we will be gloriously reunited in his presence. People we love and care about on earth are our glory and joy forever in the Lord.
Prayer: Lord, help me to accept your word in my heart, hold it in times of sufferings, and live with glorious hope to be with my loved ones in your glory.One Word: Who is your glory and joy?