I Thessalonians 4:10
“And indeed, you are showing this love to all the brothers throughout Macedonia. But we urge you, brothers, to excel more and more”.
While we are following Him we are going through the process of sanctification; meaning each day we are becoming more like Christ. There will always be room to grow. We won’t be done until we are on the other side.
If we were to do a self inspection there would be an overwhelming amount of improvement needed. This would be puting the focus on ourselves instead of Him (Hebrews 12:2). I don’t believe that’s how the Lord works. Our daily circumstances will bring up particular weaknesses and needs. Those are the ones we ask the Lord for help.
The Thessalonians were a loving church. Paul compliments them about it in 4:9. They were helpful with the Macedonian church. It may have been with giving money, time, labor and/or compassion. Even so Paul tells them to love even more. They weren’t to take a break. If more circumstances arose that required something of them they were to continue this loving behavior.
We like to take our breaks when tired. That’s fine and necessary. However, sometimes generous service is even more invigorating. This is unexpected. We think cessation is needed to be refreshed. Yet, at times continuing on brings a second wind.
There are times the Lord will bring a need when we feel we aren’t strong enough. It’s at these times we trust that He will give us the strength, time and resources to help. This isn’t serving out of a “have to” mindset, but a “want to”. We may be tired and wish for rest. Yet, we sense the Lord wants us to keep at it. Continuing on invites strength, blessing and His resources.
Malachi 4:10 speaks of how God will pour out a blessing until it overflows when we give of ourselves at these times. The Thessalonians were told to excel in their love. They were already doing so. When we continue serving, the Lord pours out His health and happiness in our lives.
Lord, thanks for Your challenges and blessings. Help us to keep serving.