Message from Scripture: 8/14/2021

 

Our message from Scripture today is 1 Thess. 4:11: “Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business and work with your hands, just as we commanded you, so that you will behave properly toward outsiders and not be in any need.”

 

Paul is writing this letter to these new Christians in Thessalonica, in an environment that was hostile to faith in Christ. They were facing persecution from the Jews, and opposition from Roman society. How can you live the Christian life and honor God in a culture like this? The short answer is to live one’s life in such a way no one can complain or find fault with it. The principles he enumerates to them are appropriate in any age. Don’t go about being boisterous, or loud and abusive to others. Mind your own business, and work honorably and honestly so others, seeing this type of behavior, will know you pursue those things that are good, for yourself, for others, and for society in general.

 

This advice from Paul is just as valid today as it was almost 2,000 years ago. Being nice to others stands out today, where so many are rude and hateful. Doing the right thing, when so many have no concept of what is good, and pursue a course of selfishness, is noteworthy. People understand it is different to the philosophy of the world in general. Even Jesus said, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matt. 5:16).

 

Paul reminded slaves, in what they did, they were serving the Lord Christ (Col. 3:24). We are all called to do our best at whatever it is we do. It does make a difference, not only today, but as we stand before God to be judged for eternity. Let’s go out and serve our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in all we say and do, knowing it has a great impact on those who need Him most desperately. God bless.

 

Robert