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 1 Thessalonians 2:1-6 - Failure and Success

        How do you define failure?  And success?  People who have full assurance of the message of Jesus Christ, who are known for serving Him, and who are growing in Him.  Men and women, boys and girls who hear and accept new life through the Good News of salvation.  Success.  More than that.  We will all stand before God our Father when Jesus Christ returns to earth (3:13).  God willing, we will have victory in Christ and have hearts that are strong, blameless, and holy on that day.  Success indeed.

        And failure?  Well, that is fruitless ministries, useless activities, and worldly achievements that ultimately mean nothing.  It is cowardly earthly men who preach with deceit, impure motives, or trickery.  Those who try to win others with flattery.  Those that only pretend to love others to get their money.  Failure includes those who hold back the Good News.  Those who persecute the messengers of Jesus Christ and who hold back the preaching of the Good News of God’s Kingdom.  Failure is talking about God, but not showing a life overflowing with love in action.  Those are failures.

        This chapter gives us characteristics to imitate.  We are to be bold despite great opposition.  If we are treated badly, if we suffer, we press on.  We are courageous through the power of the Holy Spirit.

        We are men and women of Christ who get back up and fight on.  For there is Holy Spirit power in the messengers of Christ entrusted by God with His message of reconciliation and the growth of His Kingdom.

        Our purpose is to please God, not people.  God knows our hearts and our motives.  How do you really define success?  Hopefully not by worldly achievements, trophies, or digital numbers in a bank account.  Be pure and holy.  Lord Jesus, please grant us wisdom and understanding.

        We know our Father is our shield, guard, and protector.  We know God shows us the right way to go.  God will save us from a disastrous immoral path.  For there is a path, well trodden by good men.  Let’s stay on that path.  We know that our troubles and temptations are both internal (evil desires and sinful nature lurking in us) and external (tempter trying hard to get the best of us).  Let’s not underestimate either influence.

        Never, ever seek human praise.  It means nothing.  It’s a poison of the devil.  Praise God with your thoughts, heart, words, and deeds.  And seek to be approved by God alone.  May we press on for success in Jesus.

        Lord Jesus, please help us today.  Please forgive us for any arrogance, focus on worldly achievements or praise or fame or fortune.  Help our attitudes to be one of knowing and understanding our Creator more.  Help us to be courageous in declaring the Good News of salvation and in doing God’s work with focus, joy, and heavenly energy.  We love you, God, now and for eternity.  Amen.


Rivermont Park, LYH, Christmas Season 2023


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