1 Thessalonians Chapter 1: Verses 2-3 (NIV)
We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Paul was thankful to see how the Thessalonian Church was growing practically, by acts of work, labour and endurance. However, he was equally thankful that the practical outworking of their faith was inspired by the spiritual gifts of faith, love and hope.
We don’t, or shouldn’t, do works to achieve status or approval, in God’s eyes, or anyone else’s for that matter. We do so as ambassadors for Christ, and in the spirit of love. Similarly, if we are experiencing times of difficulty or hardship, we should do so with hope that God has a purpose for our situation, and will use it for good.
Works in themselves mean nothing, but equally, as Jesus’ brother James’ said, “Faith without deeds is dead.” (James 2:26) These things need to go hand in hand. It sounds as though the Thessalonian Church had got the balance right, something indeed to be thankful for. But also something we need to learn and copy from the Thessalonians.
Dear Lord, May I too learn how to produce works produced by faith, labour in love, and endure hardships with hope. In doing so may it reflect the life that You intend for me to live. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.