I’ve encountered 7 frustrating weeks of working with our staff of trying to meet a deadline we set 6+ months ago. Many have not met the deadline and I was just about at the end of my rope when I got an email that took me over the edge. It was not a kind email and rather rude asking for more time from someone who ignored previous emails.
At a conference a guy shared a devotional from 1 Thessalonians which I remembered and went back to it. I didn’t remember the details – just that it was encouraging. It was just what I needed…
2 We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. 3 We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
4 For we know, brothers and sisters[b] loved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. 6 You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. 7 And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia
This was what I needed…. Applied to my situation, I had to be reminded that my work is produced by faith, and my labor must be prompted by love. And my endurance must be inspired by my hope in my Lord Jesus Christ. I had to be reminded that he chose me for this position, and the gospel I have received is not just words. Rather, it has come to me with power and deep conviction. And that I am to live a life imitating Christ, life has “suffering”, and I am to be a model for all believers.
It was one of those 11th hour gifts from God that I needed to respond properly in both truth and love. I would have definitely left off the love part!
This is evidence that our God is living and active today and intimately involved in all aspects of our lives. Though there are many issues today he is working out his purposes in his way and on his timetable. Amen ,and thank you Lord that. You are our strong tower in whom we can trust.
Barnabas Man 