Wednesday
1 Thessalonians 2:1-8
For you yourselves know, brothers, that our coming to you was not in vain. But though we had already suffered and been shamefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we had boldness in our God to declare to you the gospel of God in the midst of much conflict. For our appeal does not spring from error or impurity or any attempt to deceive, but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts. For we never came with words of flattery, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed—God is witness. Nor did we seek glory from people, whether from you or from others, though we could have made demands as apostles of Christ. But we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children. So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.
Sharing the good news of Jesus is not about force or intensity, but about gentleness, love, and genuine care for others. Just as Paul described being as gentle as a nursing mother with the Thessalonians, we are called to share our faith with kindness, patience, and a willingness to share not only the message but our very lives. Even in the face of opposition or ridicule, we can choose to be gentle, loving, and joyful, trusting that God works through our authentic relationships.
Application:
Who in your life needs to experience the gentleness of Christ through you, and how can you intentionally show them kindness and care this week?
For you yourselves know, brothers, that our coming to you was not in vain. But though we had already suffered and been shamefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we had boldness in our God to declare to you the gospel of God in the midst of much conflict. For our appeal does not spring from error or impurity or any attempt to deceive, but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts. For we never came with words of flattery, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed—God is witness. Nor did we seek glory from people, whether from you or from others, though we could have made demands as apostles of Christ. But we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children. So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.
Sharing the good news of Jesus is not about force or intensity, but about gentleness, love, and genuine care for others. Just as Paul described being as gentle as a nursing mother with the Thessalonians, we are called to share our faith with kindness, patience, and a willingness to share not only the message but our very lives. Even in the face of opposition or ridicule, we can choose to be gentle, loving, and joyful, trusting that God works through our authentic relationships.
Application:
Who in your life needs to experience the gentleness of Christ through you, and how can you intentionally show them kindness and care this week?