1 Thessalonians – Week 4 – Day 3

READ 

1 Thessalonians 3:6-8 

6 But now Timothy has just returned, bringing us good news about your faith and love. He reports that you always remember our visit with joy and that you want to see us as much as we want to see you. 7 So we have been greatly encouraged in the midst of our troubles and suffering, dear brothers and sisters, because you have remained strong in your faith. 8 It gives us new life to know that you are standing firm in the Lord. 

When Paul could no longer stand not knowing about the Thessalonian believers, he had sent Timothy to learn about them. Timothy had returned to Paul with the glowing report the believers were as anxious to see him as he was to see them. Paul’s intent in sending Timothy was to spiritually strengthen the believers. Notice how the good report spiritually strengthened him. 

REFLECT 

Do you rejoice in knowing someone you have helped spiritually still thinks highly of you and is progressing spiritually? This shows encouragement goes both ways. 

RESPOND 

Does your disciple need encouraging from former contacts? If so, your friend is no different than the apostle Paul. Read together 2 Corinthians 7:12-14 to see how Paul was encouraged to hear from his contacts in Corinth.