via TJC
We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers and sisters, as is only fitting, because your faith is increasing abundantly, and the love of each and every one of you toward one another grows ever greater. As a result, we ourselves speak proudly of you among the churches of God for your perseverance and faith in the midst of all your persecutions and afflictions which you endure. - 2 Thessalonians 1: 3,4 NAS
In this verse Paul, Silas, and Timothy assure the Thessalonians that it was right for them to give thanks to God. They give two reasons for their thankfulness. First, the Thessalonians' faith was growing extremely well. And second, the Thessalonians met their persecutions and harsh trials with perseverance and resolute trust in God. Nothing moved them away from their confidence in God and their dependence on Him. They wrote 2 Thessalonians in order to strengthen the faith of these members and to correct doctrinal misunderstandings.
When I wake up in the morning, or at times in the middle of the night, I pray and have a talk with my Father about my worries and concerns, about my family and friends that are in need of physical and spiritual healing. I tell Him how grateful I am about the place and time He placed me, in the countryside of Boswell, Pennsylvania and the past 66 years around the sun. I thank Him for the life He has for me and all the provisions and blessings He provides for my family, the food on our table, and a nice house to raise our 4 children and all of creation to be amazed by.
I have many friends who are struggling with sickness, loneliness, in care facilities, lost jobs, financial problems, relationship problems, a mother who just had a stroke while her grandmother passed away. Friends who are now deployed in a foreign land, a friend who while in great physical shape, slipped going down the steps and tore tendons in his knee. . I just lost a very close friend who was a Pastor and a Spiritual Leader at our Tres Dias Community. He battled bone cancer for 3 years. It was in remission this year, but it returned and our Father God called him home in November. Uncertainty strikes at the most unexpected time.
When that uncertainty strikes, Does your “faith” give you the hope you need to face that bump in the road? Are you trusting God for safety, food and the future? Are you a source of hope to others by telling them of God's promises, and spending time to understand and tend to their needs?
Daily Battle Order:
Today, wherever you are, turn to God, placing your life in His hands. Let him know of your struggles and praises. Your situation could be constantly changing but He will always remain faithful and lift up your spirit.
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