Scripture

You accepted what we said as the very word of God – which it is. And this word continues to work in you who believe.

Observation

Paul recalls have hard he worked, toiling to earn a living so as not to be a burden while he preached the good news.

Paul and his companions thank God constantly for the Thessalonians. They accepted the gospel as the very word of God

The Thessalonians suffered persecution from the Jews, as did the church in the church in Judea. Some of the Jews killed the prophets and some killed Jesus. Now they were persecuting the followers of Jesus . They fail to please God as they oppose the gospel.

Paul tried to return to Thessalonica, but Satan prevented him. The church there gives him hope and joy. They are his pride and joy.

Application

Paul commends the Thessalonians for receiving his message as the very word of God. We should have the same attitude towards, not just Paul’s letters, but all of scripture.

We often say that we believe the Bible is God’s word, but we don’t act that way.

Some people find reading the Bible is boring or difficult or irrelevant to them. But God’s word is living and active. We should be excited to come to read His word.

Whenever we read the Bible, we should ask the Holy Spirit to speak to us. Ask Him to bring the words to life in your spirit.

When we interact regularly with God’s word, it continues to work in us. Over time, we find our life conforming to God’s purposes more and more. It makes us holy as we let it fill our hearts.

Prayer

Thank you Father for your word. Please give me greater understanding as I read it day by day and help me to live it not just to read it. Amen.