Scripture Union Daily Guide 27 September 2020 – Encouraged? Because Of Your Faith
Topic: Encouraged? Because Of Your Faith
Opening Prayer: Open my eyes O Lord that I might behold wondrous things from your word in Jesus name.
Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 3:1–13
Reflection:
• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?
• What is God revealing to me in this passage?
Scripture Union Daily Guide 27 September 2020 Today’s Message:
Observe how Timothy was described. What was his mission (1 Corinthians 4:17; Philippians 2:19–23)? Why do you think Paul found it necessary to send Timothy (vv.3–5)? Timothy was not only faithful to Paul, he was also to God. He was a man of integrity, commitment, compassion and dedication.
We need religious, business and political leaders in our nations today who are faithful and dedicated like Timothy. Satan attempts to hinder the preaching of the gospel (2:18), and also tries to destroy the work already done: the faith of believers (vv.3–5). This calls for vigilance.
Note what Paul did to ensure that his ministry efforts were not destroyed by the enemy (vv.2–5). Observe the frequency of the phrase, “your faith” (vv.2,5–7 and 10), and identify how it is used. Though Paul was in distress and suffering, the faith of the believers brought him encouragement and joy (vv.7–9).
Instead of congratulating himself, Paul gave thanks to God for what he (God) was doing in the lives of the disciples. In the same way, we too must give God glory for the success of our work rather than ascribe it to ourselves.
⁂ Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Practice/Word Application:
• What Next? Paul was successful in his evangelistic work, yet he felt obligated to, “supply what was lacking in their faith,” and to pray for them (vv.10–13). How faithful are you to disciple those who come to faith in Christ through you?
Condemnation: Condemnation is a declaration of guilt and a death sentence. Everyone on earth stands condemned being sinful and for repeatedly breaking God’s commands. It is only in Christ we have been declared not guilty. Christ took our death and gave us His life.
Our new position in Christ does not take into account our past sins and failures or our good works but on what Christ has accomplished on the cross for us and our faith in Him. There is therefore no condemnation for all true Christians.
Prayer:
• May we, O Lord, continue to abide in the faith and love that spring from the hope stored up for us in heaven.
• Thank God for the death of Jesus Christ on the cross, and His resurrection for the remission of the sins of mankind: the only assurance of eternity with God.
• Offer a prayer of faith in line with Jeremiah 32:27
Read The Bible In One Year: Ezek. 20–21; John 12:27–50
Scripture Union Daily Guide 27 September 2020 – Scripture Union is an international, inter-denominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God.
