2022_04_06 Insight Post- Rusty Coram
This week’s reading- 1 Thessalonians 3-4
I had trouble this week picking what to discuss from 1 Thessalonians chapters 3 and 4. The topics were: dealing with the inevitable trouble that will come our way as Followers (3: 1-4), fighting off temptation from the Enemy (3:5), living a holy life (3:11-4:1), why avoiding sexual sin is critical (4:2-8), and how to grieve the loss of a loved one (4:13-18).
What I chose is, “Make it your goal to live a quiet life, minding your own business…” (4:11) The Amplified translations says, “make it your ambition and definitely endeavor to live quietly and peacefully, to mind your own affairs…”. This is a clear command that we need to take seriously. It is no secret that in our nation, we are constantly criticizing and condemning others whom we don’t agree with or who don’t treat us the way we feel we deserve. Taking offense and then broadcasting our displeasure is treated as our “right,” and to not do so is perceived as weak and passive. Jesus has a very different perspective. Those of us who genuinely trust Him are to live lives that are distinctly Christ-like – imitating Him. He is the one that refused to take the low road and was willing to be disrespected without becoming disrespectful in return. There are two reasons for us to adopt this attitude (1) to honor God and (2) to help others see Him through our lives. The rest of the passage in 1 Thessalonians says this, “Make it your goal to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands, just as we instructed you before. 12 Then people who are not believers will respect the way you live, and you will not need to depend on others.” The point here is that we are to live so that people will get a clear picture of God’s heart through us. Instead of treating us as we deserve, He offers us grace and mercy. When we need to confront wrong, we are to do it like He does, with the aim of reconciliation. In Hebrews, we are reminded of our God-given assignment, “Work at living in peace with everyone” Hebrews 12:14 (NLT).
If we do, the stark contrast will assuredly get us notice and may lead others to discover Jesus!
Rusty Coram
Senior Pastor