Read 2
Thessalonians 1-2
In your journal, write down the things that stick out to you from today’s Bible reading. Respond to what God shows you as you feel led (confession, thanksgiving, etc.)
In your journal, write down the things that stick out to you from today’s Bible reading. Respond to what God shows you as you feel led (confession, thanksgiving, etc.)
In this world we face
trouble, pain and injustice. It often seems that the wicked prosper while the
righteous suffer. This is one of the most troubling dilemmas for people who
study religion and philosophy. In this passage we see something wonderful:
Christianity has an answer to this dilemma. We are told that everything will be
set right when Jesus returns. Things will not be perfect on earth because our
world is marred with sin. However, in eternity all people will be repaid
according to their life on earth. Those who submit their lives to Jesus’ leading
will enter heaven, receiving eternal rewards as due. Those who “do not know God
and … do not obey the gospel … will pay the penalty of eternal destruction”
(1:8-9). When we’re faced with situations that seem unfair, we must hold firm
to the truth that our God is just.
Prayer
and Meditation
1. Ask yourself, “Do I truly believe that God is
just?” If you are hesitant to believe this ask God to show you what is holding
you back. Spend time dialoguing with
Him, allowing Him to speak truth to you.
2. Ask God how you can be
bolder for Him, even in the face of opposition. Write down anything He shows
you.
3. Ask God to show you
someone in your life who hasn’t yet submitted their life to Him. Pray that the
truths of eternity and God’s justice would sink into their hearts. Ask the Holy
Spirit to show you specific things you can pray for them that might lead them
closer to Jesus.
