2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
Calendar
CONCERN FOR YOUR FAITH
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4
1 Thessalonians 3:5
Philippians 1:23-30
“I sent to know your faith…”
CONCERN FOR YOUR FAITH
As he sat in Athens waiting, a myriad of concerns must have entered Paul’s mind. In those days, communication was poor, and there was no way that Paul could have known how the church was progressing. The only way would be to send an eyewitness to see them personally and report on how they were doing. Separated from them and awaiting news of them, he was deeply concerned that they might come under Satan’s attack and be swayed from the faith, making their previous labour to none effect. That was the heart of the Apostle Paul – the nursing mother who was continually concerned for his “spiritual children.”
His concern was always for their faith. For Paul, that was always the most important thing. That was his purpose in embarking on his second missionary journey, as he told Barnabas in Acts 15:36: “Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do.” Looking at the whole of 1 Thessalonians 3, the phrase “your faith” is mentioned a total of four times (in verses 2, 5, 7 and 10). It shows what was foremost on his mind, and that was why he thought to send Timothy to them.
In all our relationships, what is the chief concern that we have for the people around us? Our friends and our loved ones, the people who are closest to us. What is it that you are really concerned about in their lives? We get to know one another better, and learn about their hobbies, interests, favourite things, etc. But do we know each other well on a spiritual level? Are we concerned for their faith and their walk with the Lord? Do we know how their prayer life is like, and how their daily devotions are? It is indeed such a blessing to have close brothers and sisters-in-Christ who are concerned about one another’s spiritual well-being, and will take the time to connect with one another on a higher spiritual level. That way, we can more readily provoke one another unto love and unto good works.
THOUGHT: When was the last time I shared about my spiritual triumphs and struggles with someone else?
PRAYER: Father, may Thou place in me the sincere desire to care for the faith and spiritual well-being of others around me.