In writing to the church at Thessalonica, Paul encouraged them in their walk with the Lord and the evidence of their salvation. His compassion for them was not with just words, but rooted in the depths of his heart. “We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 1.2-3). Thankfulness came initially just because of who they were – believers in Jesus Christ. They were those who had repented of sin, been cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ, and brought into the family of God as His adopted children; they were those who had made a commitment to follow Christ, to stand for Christ, and to walk with Christ regardless of opposition from others. In knowing other believers might we have such a thankful heart, realizing God has been gracious and merciful when each of us was fully undeserving.
Paul also was thankful for them in three specific areas of life. First, they had faith, and they worked to live in faith, to consistently believe God and His Word; they walked with an expectation God would fulfill all His promises to them, provide for them in all their needs, and would be used and kept by Him until His coming again. Second, they labored from a heart of love for others. They were not motivated for what they could gain, for personal recognition, or for eternal rewards; they were motivated by love to see others become part of the body of Christ. Third, their hope was “steadfast;” they did not waver in faith depending on circumstances; they did not falter when life was difficult; they stood firm, anticipating the Lord’s future coming. These three areas should be evidenced in our lives: to be willing to work at having an unwavering faith, to be diligent in serving from a heart-rooted love, and to walk steadfastly in the hope of Christ’s return.
Redeemed for purpose – we have much to be thankful for –
Terry Burlingame
My Morning Desk 