Reading
- 2 Thess. 1:1-3:18
- Acts 18:12-19:22
Devotional
Paul's first letter to the Thessalonian Christians apparently raised some questions, which ultimately led to him writing a second letter which is entitled 2 Thessalonians in our Bibles today. In the second letter, Paul addresses confusion over when Jesus would return. Some were apparently mistakenly teaching that Jesus had already returned before then. Paul reminded the Thessalonians of events which Scripture said must first take place before Jesus' return.
The other major topic that Paul addresses in the second letter is warning against idleness—that is, people who weren't working. Consider these verses:
6 In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teaching you received from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, 8 nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. 9 We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate. 10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.”
11 We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. 12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat. 13 And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.
14 Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. Do not associate with them, in order that they may feel ashamed. 15 Yet do not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as you would a fellow believer.
(2 Thess. 3:6-15 NIV)
GOD is really serious about people working. It is not good to be lazy and not work when we are able to work. People who don't work often get involved in other people's business. Those people are called busybodies and being a busybody never leads to anything good or productive. GOD expects us to be spiritually prepared to stand before Jesus' throne of judgment at all times, but He also expects us to work hard until that time. Decide to be a hard worker, not a lazy busybody.
