Bible Pathways - December 8, 2005
December 8, 2005
Read 2 Thessalonians 1
In Today's
Encouragement in persecution; instruction concerning the day of the Lord; commandment to work
It grieves our hearts to realize that the vast majority of mankind is blindly rushing toward everlasting destruction in an eternal lake of fire, and most of them are ignorant of the horrors of their impending doom and judgment (Revelation 20:15). To you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of His power (II Thessalonians 1:7-9).
To be sure, much of the world has its heart set on gaining more and more of life's luxuries. This drive has an incessant obsession that often leads to physical and emotional exhaustion, depression, and what some call "burnout" For many, fears and frustrations continue to grow as the result of their inability to cope adequately with situations they can't control or change.
At times, we are all tempted to be influenced by this spirit of the world that deceives many that perish; because they received not the love of the Truth, that they might be saved (2:10). We need to remind ourselves daily that we are in a spiritual battle against satanic forces.
In striking contrast, without exception, those who choose to invest their lives in serving Christ receive true satisfaction beyond words to explain. Our Creator assures us: My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you (John 14:27). The world has a lot to say about "peace" but they can't deliver. This is achieved as we regularly read the whole counsel of God to be fully prepared, not merely for a heavenly future, but for present-day living and the ministry of God's Word in the use of our time, talents, and possessions.
Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid (John 14:27).
Cross References:
For Thessalonians 1:8 See Isaiah 1:28. II Thessalonians 2:3: See Daniel 7:25. II Thessalonians 2:4: See Ezekiel 28:2.
Word Studies:
1:3 meet = fitting; 2:17 stablish = strengthen; 3:7 disorderly = irresponsibly.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast sponsored by a sister in Texas · Staff: Clarence Rathbone · Government Official: Rep. Randy Cunningham (CA) · Country: Bahamas (284,000) in the northern portion of the West Indies · Major languages: English and some Creole · Religious freedom · 72% Protestant; 26% Roman Catholic; 1% Afro-American spiritist · Prayer Suggestion: Pray to be sensitive to give God the praise for everything you do (Psalm 40:16).
Memory Verse for the Week: 1 Peter 1:22
