2 Thessalonians 2:13-16, 3:1-5 (NIV)
13 But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord, because God chose you as firstfruits to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth. 14 He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
15 So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings[b] we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.
16 May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, 17 encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word. 3: 1 As for other matters, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. 2 And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil people, for not everyone has faith. 3 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. 4 We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.
Reflection
| This is a devotional about hope. It was written to the Thessalonians. |
| The Greek word, elpis, meaning hope, doesn’t mean wishful thinking. It means God will fulfill what He has promised. We are to stand firm and hold fast to God’s teachings passed on to us, either by word or letter. Paul, who wrote this, isn’t developing an “end-time chronology. “He wants to instill hope. The Thessalonians were concerned their deceased brothers and sisters—and those who may die before His return—would miss out on the glorious events of the Jesus’ second coming. Paul is trying to reassure them that deceased believers will be raised to enjoy His appearing. Hope is one of the three main elements of Christian character. Look at 1 Cor. 13:13. Hope is an essential and fundamental element of Christian life. Peter wrote in 1 Pet. 3:15; “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” We do have hope. And we can stand firm. |
by Rick Reed
For Pondering and Prayer
We do have hope so we can stand firm. God will do what he says.
Prayer: Most hopeful God, help me to be assured that you do what you say you’ll do. Help me to have hope. Amen.
