1 Thessalonians 3 Devotional

Strengthened for the Trials

“And may the Lord cause you to increase and overflow with love for one another and for everyone else, just as our love for you overflows,”1 Thessalonians 3:12 (BSB)

Paul had warned the Thessalonians that they would suffer persecution, and it had come (3:3-4). Fearing that the tempter had shaken them and his labor had been wasted, he sent Timothy to strengthen and encourage them in their faith (3:2, 3:5). Timothy returned with good news of their faith and love. For Paul it was like getting his life back, since they were standing firm in the Lord (3:6-8).

The chapter ends in prayer, and the prayer shows where Paul's confidence lies. He asks God the Father and the Lord Jesus to clear the way for him, and he asks the Lord to make their love increase and overflow toward one another and toward everyone (3:11-12). He prays that God will establish their hearts so they are blameless and holy when Jesus comes with all his saints (3:13). Growth in love is something Paul asks the Lord to give. So you can pray for it too, for yourself and for others who are under pressure.

To think about: Who do you know who is under pressure right now, and how could you ask the Lord to strengthen them and grow their love?