2 Thessalonians 3:12-13

Now those who are such we command and exhort through our Lord Jesus Christ that they work in quietness and eat their own bread. But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good.

Paul says to those in the church who were lazy as they waited for Christ’s return, “Stop being a burden and start being a blessing; work and be a good example.” Can you just picture this as the church gathers to read the letter that has come from Paul? They get through the first couple of chapters with excitement, “The rapture hasn’t happened, we haven’t been left behind, and we aren’t in the tribulation. We shouldn’t be looking for the antichrist; we should be looking for Jesus Christ!” Then they get to chapter 3, “And you who are not working and are busybodies, go to work and eat your own bread!” You can almost imagine the tension in the room as those who are guilty of this say, “Oh my gosh, that’s me!”

It can be so hard for us to receive correction, but God doesn’t do it to punish us but to refine and restore us. If you find yourself in that position, receive it, don’t reject it, you’ll be better off for it.

Then Paul adds in verse 13, “But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good.”. For the rest, keep doing well, and don’t be discouraged by others who don’t listen; keep serving and following the Lord. Remember what Jesus said in Revelation 22:12, “Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.”

Pastor Doug Hardin