I Thessalonians 3:5
“For this reason, when I could endure it no longer, I also sent to find out about your faith, for fear that the tempter might have tempted you, and our labor would be in vain.”
Jesus reduced all the commandments to two, love God and love your neighbor (Matthew 22:36-40). Today’s verse has us looking at loving others.
Paul is demonstrating his love for those he comes in contact with. These are the Thessalonians christians. He met them on one of his missionary journeys (Acts 17).
When Paul first got to that town, he preached the gospel and acquired many followers. This group became the church. Some in town were jealous and hired some to stir up a riot. Paul had to flee after about a month there.
Today’s verse has Paul curious as to their well being. Were they still in the faith? We’re the opposers in town still causing trouble? Was there faith healthy and growing? Did the devil tempt them and pollute their faith? This was Paul’s mindset. He would often think of them and was curious. He sent people and this letter to check up on them.
How do we show love for others? We are to do so with those that are in our circle of influence. Our family and friends are the immediate recipients, then come our coworkers and classmates. Would they say that they feel our love, if asked?
Christianity is different, because Jesus challenges us to love those outside of our circle. Jesus says in Matthew 5:47, “And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even Gentiles do the same?” This verse was in the context of Him telling them to love their enemies. We need to rely on The Lord for this. He will put us in circumstances and help us.
Lastly, we are to love those we bump into as we go throughout our days. It’s usually a small act of kindness. By doing so, we may be entertaining angels (Hebrews 13:2).
Lord, thanks that help us to love others.