So you received the message with joy from the Holy Spirit in spite of the severe suffering it brought you. In this way, you imitated both us and the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 1:6In Paul's first letter to the church of Thessalonica, he began by commending them on their reputation of faith, hope and love (v 3).
This "young church".... "new converts".... had only a few years earlier received Paul's life changing message.... the gospel of Jesus Christ and was embracing it with total commitment.
Although they were suffering for their beliefs.... in a society that did not believe in Jesus but worshiped pagan gods and many idols.... this church continued to stand firm in their faith and hope in the one true God! They were living their lives according to the example set for them by Paul.... imitating the life of Jesus. As a result of their steadfastness, many believers in other regions heard of the commitment and were encouraged to do the same (v 7).
As Christians, living in a secular society, we face many trials, tribulations and temptations. These things could easily come against.... challenge our devotion... our commitment to living a life that imitates that of Jesus. But we too... as the church at Thessalonica are called to turn away from these influences, stand firm and live so that others may be encouraged to find out more about Jesus Christ!
DAILY MEDITATION SCRIPTURE
Tuesday: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:16
Wednesday: We loved you so much that we shared with you not only God's Good News but our own lives, too. 1 Thessalonians 2:8
Thursday: For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light! For this light within produces only what is good and right and true. Ephesians 5:8-9
Friday: Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when He judges the world. 1 Peter 2:12
