December 8
Read II Thessalonians 1 - 3
In Today's Reading:
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 an eternal lake of fire, ignorant of the horrors of their impending doom and judgment. 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 this life's luxuries. Fears and frustrations continue to grow as the result of their inability to cope adequately with situations they can't change. This drive has, at times, led to physical and emotional exhaustion, depression, and what some call "burnout."
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 may be 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. This means they 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 their time, talents, and possessions.
The Apostle John tells us: These are written, that you might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you might have life through His Name (authority) (John 20:31).
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 = proper; fitting; 2:17 stablish = strengthen; 3:7 disorderly = irresponsibly; undisciplined.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast in memory of Iva Mae McElroy · BP Staff: Pam Pendergrast · Government Officials: Rep. Thomas Barrett (WI) and Rep. Randy Cunningham (CA) · Country: China, Mainland (1.2 billion) in eastern Asia · Major languages: Standard Chinese (Putonghua) or Mandarin (based on the Beijing dialect) · Renewed persecution of the Church · 18% Chinese folk-religionist; 6% Buddhist; 2% Muslim; number of Christians unknown but growing · Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to teach you His ways (Psalm 27:11).
Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 9:6