“More Commendable Traits”


BIBLE READING: 2 Thessalonians 1

Even though Paul doesn't spend time talking about himself as he begins the letter, he does take time to compliment the Thessalonians before he races into the subject he wants to discuss.  He has the Thessalonians on his heart.  He says, "We…give thanks to God for you" (v.3). "We…speak proudly of you" (v.4). "We pray for you" (v.11).
Paul used the words, "We ought always to give thanks to God for you" (v.3), to show that their spiritual condition inspired him to give thanks for them.  He further said that he was giving thanks for them "as is only fitting."  This phrase indicates that the thanksgiving Paul was voicing was no more than that which was appropriate.
Why was he thankful for the Thessalonians?  He saw traits in them that we need to see in ourselves:
·         Faith that has grown strong.
·         A love that has increased.
·         A steadfastness that refuses intimidation (perseverance).
We should encourage faithful Christians we know in the same way today and make sure that we have the same traits in our lives.

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