Check out all the previous 1 Thessalonians readings here.
1 Thessalonians Reading | Week 2 | Day 1
Prayer
As you come to spend time with Jesus, calm your mind and body until you feel fully present. Ask Him to teach you more about Himself today.
Bible Reading: 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20
Read these verses three times slowly.
But, brothers and sisters, when we were orphaned by being separated from you for a short time (in person, not in thought), out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you. For we wanted to come to you—certainly I, Paul, did, again and again—but Satan blocked our way. For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? Indeed, you are our glory and joy.
Reflection & Questions
Paul continues to pour out his affection for the Thessalonians in these verses. He tells them being separated felt like being “orphaned,” he had “intense longing” to see them (and only Satan could stop him), but most of all he says that as he thinks about his reward in heaven – it is their presence that will be his “glory and joy.”
For Paul entering heaven had a lot of experiences with it. He would be with Jesus (Phil 1:21). He knew pain and suffering would be over (Phil 3:20-21). But he also knows that there will be great joy to see his ONEs there. In fact they will be his glory and crown. As we invest in, share with and invite our ONEs, picturing them in heaven with us is a great motivator!
- Do you love your ONE(s) like Paul? Why or why not?
- Have you pictured your ONE(s) in heaven with you? Take a moment to imagine that. How does it challenge and motivate you?
Prayer
Pray in response to today’s reading.
Worship Song
You might use this song today to worship Jesus today:
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Questions?
Ed Applegate
