1 Thessalonians 3:9-13 (NRSV)
Read 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13 on biblegateway.com
Verse 9How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy that we feel before our God because of you? Verse 10Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you face to face and restore whatever is lacking in your faith.
Verse 11Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you. Verse 12And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we abound in love for you. Verse 13And may he so strengthen your hearts in holiness that you may be blameless before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.
Devotion
A mentor has changed the way that I think about conflict. In his family, arguing with someone demonstrates you care about the integrity and wisdom of the person with whom you argue. In our culture, where arguments easily escalate into assault and injury, this understanding has changed how I view my most trusted friends. Real friends are not those who pretend things are hunky-dory when they are not. Real friends are those who confront me in truth and love when I need it.
Paul displays a similar type of friendship with a community he cares about deeply. Rather than pretending all is well, Paul writes about his heartfelt desire to reunite with friends facing real faith struggles.
Sometimes we are called to challenge as well as support and encourage one another in times of such hardship. In doing so, we are the very real presence of Christ for one another.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You are a faithful friend like no other. Teach us to offer truthful friendship to one another as we share your love in authentic community. Amen.