Christians not only have to love one another but also be good testimonies to the people of the world. Christians belong to the same family and have the same Heavenly Father; therefore we should love one another. In fact, God taught us how to love. When He gave His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to die for us on the cross, it was the best demonstration of love.

Paul exhorted the Thessalonians believers to love more and more. Sometimes, God puts us in circumstances to give us opportunities to show love to others. For example, despite Saul’s hatred of David, David loved him and mourned greatly when he learnt of Saul’s death. How about you? You can show love to others by being friendly, helpful or offering a listening ear. How about showing love to someone who is not likeable? That is tough, is it not? Again, on our own, we would not be able to do it, and that is why we need the Lord to help us.

Write down one act of love that you can show to another person.

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Although Timothy generally had a good report of the Thessalonian church, there were some who created problems in the church because of their idle behaviour. These new believers misunderstood the doctrine of Christ’s return and gave up their jobs in order to wait for His coming.They were not busy with God's work but became busybodies instead. They spent their time interfering with other people’s affairs and getting themselves into trouble. Their character and conduct were bad testimonies. Paul exhorted these new converts to work to provide for themselves and not to meddle with the affairs of other people. We need the same advice today, not to be caught lazy and idle, but to be busy in working and serving the Lord.

As a student, you should study hard, and give of your best in school. Trust in the Lord as you sit for tests or examinations. As a son or daughter, help out at home. Even if you have a domestic helper at home, don’t be lazy but be responsible and be a good witness for Christ.

Thought: May our acts of love point people to the love of God.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me be a good testimony at home, in school and in church. That is impossible on my own, so please help me God. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.