Christian Tiews

Today we steart reading Paul’s second letter to the Christian congregation in Thessalonica, chapter 1. God’s judgment will be carried out by the Lord Jesus at His second coming on the Last Day. This is bad news for those who do not believe, for those who reject God’s grace in Christ (verse 8), as “they will suffer . . . away from the presence of the Lord” (v 9). As believers, we live in a state of continual readiness for this day. Jesus will be glorified in us, and we in Him (verse 12); by His grace, God will judge believers worthy to inherit heaven; and by His power, He will bring our faith to its heavenly fulfillment (verses 11–12). • Gracious Father, You led Your people, ancient Israel, from bondage in Egypt to the Promised Land. Lead us, the new Israel, from this earthly vale of tears to the promised land of Your heavenly kingdom and eternal life. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (pp. 10417-10418). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read 1 Thessalonians 5: Paul gives both his final instruction about leadership and a benediction. Christians should support and encourage one another. We should respect the elders and leaders of our congregations because of their work for the Lord and the whole people of God. The Lord Jesus, by humbling Himself to the point of washing His disciples’ feet, showed to us the love He has for all believers. • Lord, give us Your heart and mind so that our life may be blameless, respecting and loving others. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10391). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read 1 Thessalonians 4. Paul comforts the Thessalonians, saying that the dead in Christ will be the first to taste the resurrection and come with the risen Christ. At the second coming, we will all be together once more. Christians grieve over the death of loved ones but not as those who have no hope. The resurrection of our Lord, and the victory we have over death through Him, gives us a living hope, despite the fact that death separates loved ones and causes great pain. • Thank You, Lord Jesus, for making the way through death a path of hope and joy, due to Your resurrection. Create in our hearts the joy and hope of Your victory over death. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10386). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read 1 Thessalonians 3. Paul gives thanks and prays for the Thessalonians when he hears the good report from Timothy that they are standing in their faith and have the same kind of love for him as he has for them. Our faith in the Lord and love for one another should be as living and contagious as that of the Thessalonians. The Lord, who has promised to be with us until the end of time, will keep us in His faith and kindle His love in our hearts so that we may love Him and one another. • We praise You, O God, because the gates of hell cannot prevent the sown seed of Your Word from growing. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (pp. 10382-10383). (Function). Kindle Edition.