November 27. 1 Thessalonians 1-5, 2 Thessalonians 1-3

 

If you need encouragement and a quick synopsis of what the Christian life could look like, these two letters written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Thessalonica, are a great place to start. Things went well with Paul’s ministry here. Oh, it was not necessarily easy, but it went well.

 

1 Thess. 2:12 We pleaded with you, encouraged you, and urged you to live your lives in a way that God would consider worthy. For he called you to share in his Kingdom and glory.

 

They listened. They received. They put it into practice, to the point that they were now the example of living by faith for so many others, even those living far away.  Paul’s joy is overflowing in these letters, as he reflects on their spiritual growth and dedication to living the truths of God’s Word. He even says that they are his pride and joy

 

I Thess. 2: 19 After all, what gives us hope and joy, and what will be our proud reward and crown as we stand before our Lord Jesus when he returns? It is you! 20 Yes, you are our pride and joy.

 

These letters from Paul are a testimony to the life-transforming power of the Good News, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They also give tremendous insight and teaching regarding Christ’s return, and the reality of a spiritual war that is being waged even now. These are easy to read letters yet packed with profound truths. You would do well to spend more time in these chapters and verses. In all of these wonderful truths and words of grace and joy, did you notice 1 Thessalonians 3:10?

 

I Thess. 3:10 Night and day we pray earnestly for you, asking God to let us see you again to fill the gaps in your faith.

 

As successful a ministry Paul had in the lives of these believers, and in spite of the evident growth and commitment these believers had to God’s truths, Paul recognized that the work was not complete.  There were still gaps to fill.

Here is the truth, it does not matter how long or how well you know God, Jesus Christ, or the Word of God, there will always be room for growth. You can still learn more of Him and His Word. Look around you today and see how God is working to fill in the gaps in your faith and Christian walk. It may be a message in a song, a conversation with a friend, a podcast by your favorite preacher, or this devotional thought. Who is God directing you towards in order that you help to fill the gap in another person’s life? What a wonderful thought that God is not done molding and shaping your life. He is always sending someone, or something your way to help fill the gaps in your faith. It is okay to have gaps in your faith but let Him fill those for you.

Keep learning of Him. Take the daily challenge to pillow your head each night, a little more like Christ than when you woke up. Keep filling the gaps.