Daily Devo | The Stories We Believe in Tough Times (New Testament in a Year, 1 Thessalonians 3)

Have you ever seen a parent worry about their children when they go away for the first time? Perhaps it's to a sleepover, or a summer camp, or maybe when they go to college or move out. Paul expresses how worried he was when the young Thessalonian church was on their own and facing a difficult trial. Were they ok? Did they draw closer to God in their trials or did they perhaps walk away from the faith in despair? Paul therefore sent Timothy to check up on the Thessalonians and discovered that they were not only doing well but thriving in their faith! They had held onto God's truth rather than falling victim to Satan's lies. Paul then shares a quick three-part prayer that serves as a model of how we can pray for ourselves and for those we love.

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For Reflection:

- When you face difficulties, what tends to challenge your trust in God most? What helps you remain spiritually grounded?

- Paul says that hearing about the Thessalonians’ faithfulness brought him great encouragement even while he was experiencing trouble himself. How might paying attention to the ways God is working in other people’s lives bring you hope during your own struggles?

- Prayer: Lord, through every trial, help me to trust what you say and to love and encourage others more and more.