September 16, 2010
1 Thessalonians 3
Lynell McCrary
As you read 1 Thessalonians 3, do you “hear” the passion in Paul’s writing? He was aware of the Thessalonians’ tough trials, and earnestly wanted to know that they were okay.
Using today’s technologies, when we find ourselves concerned for the welfare of others, we can quickly find out when someone is doing well. By contrast, Paul had to wait for the message to come back from Timothy.
In verses 9 and 10, I can almost see Paul jumping up and down with excitement when he finds out that they are doing well spiritually. His response to Timothy’s good report reminds me of God’s response to us when we communicate with Him.
It’s so easy to get consumed with the busyness of the day. Yet God is longing to be with us all of the time. Unlike Paul and the Thessalonians, God knows how we are doing every moment of the day, yet He longs to hear it from us. He wants good reports, but also the bad, silly, lonely, tired and heartfelt ones. Nothing delights God more than to be in constant communication with us all day long.
We are the ones that create separation in our relationship with God, not Him.
When is the last time that you talked with God? How long will your next conversation with Him last?
Did you know? When she’s not busy in her ministry assignment as Grace Covenant’s Connections Director, Lynell lists this as a “perfect day of meals” - cold pizza for breakfast, Donato’s pizza for lunch and Brooklyn South pizza for dinner. The toppings don’t matter!
