Week 29
2 Thessalonians 3:2 “And that we will be rescued from perverse and evil men; for not all have faith”
Paul’s great concern in his life and ministry was the spreading of the Word of God (2 Thessalonians 3:1). His desire and aspiration was for God’s truth to find lodging in the hearts and minds of people to the glory of God through the saving work of Jesus Christ.
But in the process of preaching, teaching, and discipling people, he found himself opposed and attacked by “perverse and evil men.” These men were not often times pagans, but they were religionists who claimed to love and follow the God of Abraham. Their attacks against Paul came with such force and ferocity that Paul asks the Thessalonian Christians to pray that he might be “rescued” from such attackers.
Many choice servants of the Lord are under attack for their service to Christ. The devil uses whatever open window and opportunity he can to express his disdain and opposition to Christ, the gospel, and those who preach the gospel. The God-called servants of the Lord must be aware of the possibility of such assaults that will assuredly come upon them. They must be prepared to stand fast in love, grace, and truth to maintain and extend the ministry of the Word of God.
Paul prayed for rescue. What kinds of rescue does God give to His servants under bombardment for the faith? Sometimes the Lord gives the rescue of enduring strength that Christ’s servant can and will stand fast. Sometimes the Lord gives providential intervention to cause the aggression to cease. Sometimes the Lord uses the negative blitz to turn others to the truth and give to them an understanding of the Word of God, calling them to Christ and service.
The great interest of the Apostle was to be fruitful for the glory of God. He wanted the Word of God to go forth that the Word might bear fruit to the praise of God and the extension of the Kingdom of Christ. In Paul’s case, this certainly came to pass in time. His great desire for his life was to be an investment for the field of gospel service.
We too must recognize that the Lord is calling us to service. This service will be difficult, challenging, and at times burdensome. However, serving Christ in love and for the gospel is a glorious calling, and we will never regret our work for the Lord Jesus. Let us give our very best for Christ’s service and glory, knowing that our work will not be in vain. Christian friend, press on, press on, press on until that glorious day He calls you home; your efforts and difficulties will be worth it.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to serve You well while I am here on this earth. Give to me a holy tenacity to be faithful and endure well. Thank You for Your all-sufficient grace. Amen.