1 Thessalonians 2:9-10

For you remember, brethren, our labor and toil; for laboring night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God. You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe.

1 Thessalonians 2:9-10

Paul says, “You remember, don’t you?” He’s reminding the Thessalonians of how they behaved when Paul was with them. They didn’t just say they loved them but showed it with their actions. He was able to say, “You know, and God knows how we sought to live devoutly or holy, that we behaved justly or righteously, and we are blameless in our actions.” They didn’t only leave behind an example of working hard physically but also an example of living spiritually upright lives.

And the fruit of this labor of love was now evident in the church in Thessalonica. They were serving one another, reaching out to the people around them with the love of God, and the church was strong and thriving.

You should know that your life and how you live it greatly affects others around you, both in the church and outside of it. Sure, it takes hard work, humility, and devotion to God, but it’s well worth it.

Pastor Doug Hardin