week of 07/05/11 3rd recorded HighQuest 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12

The passage I read was 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12

You can find that passage here:

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Thessalonians+2%3A1-12&version=NIV

The verse that most stood out to me:

² We had previously suffered and been treated outrageously in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in the face of strong opposition.

And

⁸ so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.

As I reflect:

In my reflection time on this passage, I see believers that though previously attacked and treated wrongly, didn’t give up on the great commission. I see believers that boldly continued sharing the gospel out of love for others. Not only were they not hesitant in sharing, but they were delighted to share not only the gospel, but their lives as well. Though a short reflection, this is a correction of focus for me. When I am scorned by someone that will not accept the gospel message from me, it is very easy to become discouraged and not want to continue sharing with others. However, like my brothers in this passage that now await me in Heaven, I am to not only press on to share the gospel in love, but also my life. The Lord has made wonderful improvements in my life in both of those areas. In comparison to when I first believed, I witness far more now and am far more transparent in all my ways than I ever thought was possible or desirable. I have come to learn the benefits for not only myself, but for others, for furthering the kingdom, and for the glory of God as well.

My response to the Lord:

My God, may I not shy away from sharing your message with those in need, despite any amount of perse3cution from those who are deaf or blind to your truths. May I never take the easier way out, being sly, or looking to falsely convert others out of a since of pride of outward accomplishment. Lord, I ask you instead to speak through me directly into the hearts of men and women that you may change the soil and bear much fruit in them. May I be gentle, but bold; loving, but convicting. Help me always to encourage, comfort, and urge others to follow after you, repent, and be saved. Thank you Lord. In Jesus’ name.