“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. For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake. And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything. For they themselves report… how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.” 1 Thessalonians 1:2-8,9b
“Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12
The gospel had taken root, and Paul urged that the new believers in Thessaloniki continue to grow and flourish. His own example and prayers had much to do with the early faith of his beloved church plant, and he knew that was indicative of the Spirit at work. What he’d modeled for them in proclamation and practice they were implementing, to the spread of the gospel and God’s grace in the region. Keep on, he urged. As you bear the fruit of righteousness it will continue to spread forth and afar. (1 Thessalonians 2:4-12)
Seed-scattering, watering, and harvesting would in God’s time and way bring more growth. The point in being an example was to make sure that example pointed everyone to Jesus. This is true today in every gospel effort for us. Our message, investments, and toil are to exemplify the truths and character of Jesus. (1 Corinthians 1:12-13,17; 3:5-7)
We must first allow the word to take root in conviction and power. Our ensuing labor in Christ’s love and hope will cause the joy of our faith to swell and spread with contagion. What we begin to practice as a new natural sounds forth as a holy, irresistible cry to the watching world. Genuine faith that reflects Christ compels others to turn from empty living to serve the living true God.
What kind of example are we to those younger in Christ than we are? Do we concern ourselves more with personal progress, proficiency, or legacy than with nurturing and raising up others to love and follow Jesus? How do our choices and activities in work, ministry, and home life reflect the purposes and priorities of God? Whom do we regularly and patiently take under our wing in prayer and care?
Lord, may my work be of faith, my labor of love, and my hope be steadfast, all a beacon that draws others to You. Turn any reticence or complacency to zealous faith in action that exemplifies Your grace and glory.
As the rain and snow 