Scripture For Today: 2 Thessalonians 3:11-16
“Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all.”
2 Thessalonians 3:16
Never forget that your service to God and your attitude in it can not be dependent on someone else’s obedience or service. Each individual member of our church must choose both their obedience and their service as well as their attitude in it. Those who refuse to obey God and diligently serve Him can not be allowed to be your measuring stick for service or obedience to God. If they do you will become discouraged and weary in well doing until you simply quit your labor and indulge your bitterness at what others do not do. Today, Paul has given you the answer to staying refreshed in the work of the ministry God has for you.
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In the church a Thessalonica there were some believers who “talking the talk” but not truly striving to live their lives for the glory of God. Living life for the glory of God means that the commandments of God are obeyed diligently. Disobedience to your master does not honor or bring glory to your master. Living life for the glory of God also means actively serving Him in the church. There were some in Thessalonica who were busy bodies who did not work and were acting contrary to the commandments of God given to them through Paul. The effect of this was that those who were laboring in service and striving to live holy and obedient lives were in danger of being discouraged by those who refused to serve and walk with God in a real way. This passage is meant to encourage those who are in danger of growing weary in their labor to keep on and not become discouraged by those who don’t walk well.
Paul gives two things to them and us that will defeat discouragement. First, try to help those who are disobedient and not engaged by admonishing them as a brother. Second, avoid letting their actions discourage you and lead you into sin. Notice how: You must avoid bitterness, “Yet count him not as an enemy,”. You must avoid closeness with them, “note that man, and have no company with him,”. You must refuse to let their failure weigh down your service and walk with God, “be not weary in well doing,”. You must take your refreshment, encouragement, and rest from the intimate presence of the God you serve, resting in Him. “Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16.
Don’t let others failure cause your discouragement, let Christ’s presence refresh your soul as you faithfully labor on for Him.