How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you? Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith.
1 Thessalonians 3:9-10
Hope that Deepens Faith
Daily Devotion – December 7, 2018
Devotion based on 1 Thessalonians 3:9-10
See series: Devotions
The Apostle Paul was in a happy mood. He just received some good news. A group of believers were safe. Troublemakers had stirred up bad feelings toward anyone who believed in Jesus. They formed a mob, they started a riot. For months, Paul worried about what happened to the believers. Finally, news reached Paul’s ears. Not only did the little group survive, but they were growing stronger in their faith! The good news made Paul so happy! “How can we thank God enough for you,” he cried out.
Have you experienced that feeling when your worst fears never materialized?
- A young child imagines a lurking closet shadow to be a real monster. A flick of the light switch shows it was only a hanging shirt. What a relief!
- A student thinks he bombed a test, but he got an “A!” What joy!
- The auto shop warns the repair bill may be huge, but it turns to be a quick fix! What happiness!
- The doctor cautions about the outcome of the medical tests, but it turns out to be nothing! What a surprise! You just want to hug someone!
Jesus gives us news this Christmas that gives real hope, it dispels the dark and replaces fears. What good is a house filled with decorations and lights if your heart is empty of Jesus? Only Jesus can fill a heart “lacking in faith.”
The Apostle Paul wanted only the best for the people that he loved. So he shared Jesus with them. He prayed for their faith to be safe and strong. Do you know someone who lives in the dark because they don’t know Jesus? Are you worried that they may be in real danger? Maybe Jesus can use you to share him, so their faith may be in Jesus too! Start thinking and praying that Jesus turns on the light of faith and gives them the gift of hope in their hearts and may share it through you.
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, your coming this Christmas makes us so happy! Supply what is lacking in our faith. Make it strong! Give us someone to share our happiness so the gift of hope can be theirs too! Amen.
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