TGIF
We ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love all of you have for one another is increasing.
2 Thessalonians 1:3
I reckon we are pretty good at giving thanks for good things that happen to us. On Friday’s, when we sit down to family breakfast and talk about things we are thankful for, the first thing my kids turn to is stuff we have received. It’s the shelter. It’s the food. It’s the holidays.
But Paul challenges us to think a lot deeper. Firstly, to spiritual things over material things. What is he thankful for? For growing faith and love. Most of us would prefer a growing bank balance, or share portfolio, or salary package. But if joy is truly found in knowing God more and seeing things His way, wouldn’t a growing faith be far better?
Secondly, he encourages us to look beyond ourselves to a deeply challenging thanksgiving that is built on a love for others. Christian love looks like celebrating other people's wins even when they don’t affect you. Do you struggle with this? I do.
But actually, this is where practising thanksgiving can be helpful. It is both a response of love but can actually also turn your eyes beyond yourself and grow love at the same time.
For Today:
Pray:
Praise the Father that He loves His people and is glorified by their faith. Give thanks for Jesus Christ who is the object of our faith and love. Ask God for His Holy Spirit to grow you and others in faith and love.
2 Thessalonians 1:3
I reckon we are pretty good at giving thanks for good things that happen to us. On Friday’s, when we sit down to family breakfast and talk about things we are thankful for, the first thing my kids turn to is stuff we have received. It’s the shelter. It’s the food. It’s the holidays.
But Paul challenges us to think a lot deeper. Firstly, to spiritual things over material things. What is he thankful for? For growing faith and love. Most of us would prefer a growing bank balance, or share portfolio, or salary package. But if joy is truly found in knowing God more and seeing things His way, wouldn’t a growing faith be far better?
Secondly, he encourages us to look beyond ourselves to a deeply challenging thanksgiving that is built on a love for others. Christian love looks like celebrating other people's wins even when they don’t affect you. Do you struggle with this? I do.
But actually, this is where practising thanksgiving can be helpful. It is both a response of love but can actually also turn your eyes beyond yourself and grow love at the same time.
For Today:
- Do you struggle to give thanks for God’s work in others? Why do you?
- Who have you seen grow in their faith recently?
- Give thanks for God’s work in growing faith in others.
Pray:
Praise the Father that He loves His people and is glorified by their faith. Give thanks for Jesus Christ who is the object of our faith and love. Ask God for His Holy Spirit to grow you and others in faith and love.
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