“But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and
protect you from the evil one”. 2 Thessalonians 3:3
Every
season of life has both ups and downs, positive and negative situations. We
experience moments of joy and celebration, but we also face seasons of
difficulty, disappointment, and pain. On top of the natural challenges that
come with living in a broken world, there are spiritual powers actively working
against us, trying to get us to lose hope and abandon our faith.
In
the midst of difficult seasons—or even outright persecution—it can be easy to
forget that God is still present with us. When circumstances overwhelm us, and
the darkness seems impenetrable, we may wonder if God has forgotten us or
turned away. But Scripture consistently reminds us of a powerful truth: He does
not abandon us in the midst of suffering. Rather, He strengthens us and walks
with us through the pain. We are never alone, even when we feel most isolated.
The
church in Thessalonica experienced a very similar situation. As they earnestly
prayed for the gospel to spread across their region and transform their
communities, they endured severe suffering and fierce opposition. The message
of Christ threatened the existing power structures and cultural norms, and the
early believers paid a price for their faithfulness. Understanding their
struggle, Paul writes to the members of these churches not only to encourage
them in their present trials but to remind them of God's unchanging
character—the foundation upon which they could anchor their hope.
He
tells them first that the Lord is faithful. This declaration should inspire
confidence in God's unwavering faithfulness, reassuring believers that His
consistency provides a firm foundation during life's challenges. God's
faithfulness also means that He fulfills His promises. Reminding believers that
God's promises are sure can strengthen their hope and motivate them to
persevere through hardships.
Second,
Paul tells these believers that God will strengthen them and protect them in
the midst of what they're experiencing. Emphasizing God's constant presence can
help believers feel secure and comforted amid their struggles.
Because
God never changes —because His character is eternally consistent —He can
strengthen and protect us through every experience in life—whether we're
walking through valleys or standing on mountaintops. His faithfulness isn't
circumstantial; it's eternal.
So
take some time today to thank God for His strength and faithfulness. Reflect on
how He has walked with you through past difficulties. Ask Him to help you in
your current circumstances, and to give you confidence in His power and
presence. He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it.
May the Lord bless you and keep you, and may the Lord used these words to renew your spirit.
Pastor Dimas
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