Reading for December 11-16
Reading this week: 1 Thessalonians
This might be Paul’s earliest encouragement to a church struggling with the implications of the Second Advent. I hope you will be as encouraged as our brothers and sisters in Thessalonica.
Monday: 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10, The Thessalonian faith
How much do you identify with the “severe suffering” of the Thessalonian church? How does their faith encourage you?
Tuesday: 1 Thessalonians 2:1-16, Who is your Paul?
Who has been the Paul, the encourager, in your life? How did this person bring the word of God to you?
Wednesday: 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13, Our glory and joy
What would Timothy say about your “faith and love”? This week, pray Paul’s 3:9-13 prayer for an ACRC friend.
Thursday: 1 Thessalonians 4:1-11, Living to please God
How has brotherly love become a bigger part of your life? Who are you struggling most to love “more and more”?
Friday: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11, The parousia
What aspect of Paul’s Second Advent teaching most encourages you? How does the reality of the “trumpet call of God” move you to more living to please God?
Saturday: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28, Doug’s favorite benediction
How are you keeping the Spirit’s fire burning? How are the “alls” of 5:16-18 helping your spiritual flame?