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There's coming A DAY...
Rod Shimabukuro2 Thessalonians 1:8 He will punish those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. 9 They will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might 10 on the day he comes to be glorified in his holy people and to be marveled at among all those who have believed. This includes you, because you believed our testimony to you.
11 With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may bring to fruition your every desire for goodness and your every deed prompted by faith.
What fierce, sobering, difficult words to write. Then to be read and received by the hearts of Christians in Thessalonica! I'm wondering what the temperature the hearts of Christians were, when this letter was read to them. Paul's 1st and now 2nd letter to these Christ followers included the challenge to live out their love and faith (which they were admonished for).
It appears to me in this section of verses 8-9, the tone is assertive and serious for Christians to really consider their calling, meaning their life of faith, desire for goodness to live holy lives.
For me, I receive this word as a serious challenge to be a strong, faithful believer in Jesus - who lives in a way that continues to give Beckie, my loved ones...reasons to boast in the Lord about my testimony. (like Paul did v 3-4).
I also want to be a more serious and bold witness, realizing that everlasting destruction being shut out from the presence of God is an eternal decision. I want to live a life and share my faith in Jesus, in a way that reveals His truth, love and eternal purpose.
I am also called (HELP LORD!!) to responsibly pastor and teach others to live and do likewise. To understand, know and live out the Scriptures, a a manner worthy of His calling.
Dear Daddie God! You wouldn't have called me into Your ministry without the grace, favor, provisions to disciple, pastor and teach well. I ask for Your Holy Spirit provision of wisdom, discernment and understanding - to see, know, rightly interpret and teach Your Holy, Living Word! I trust in You LORD!!! I NEED YOU!!!
