April 14. 1 Thessalonians 2. Brishajna Brinkley
Despite the opposition Paul and Silas faced in Thessalonica, they still shared the gospel boldly with them. However, they not only shared the gospel but also their lives with them as well. They could have been a burden to them, but instead, they were gentle with them, encouraged them, comforted them, and urged them “to live lives worthy of God”, (v. 12). They proclaimed the gospel, and they showed the Thessalonians the love of Jesus through the way they lived. Yesterday, I invited one of my coworkers to Church, and she said maybe she would check it out. Shortly after that, a customer came and placed an order, but it was time for me to go and I didn’t want to frustrate my ride, so I asked my coworker (who was busy) if she could fill the order. I also said that there were still a few things that needed to be sliced. I wish I stayed back and filled the order. It would’ve shown that I was not only inviting her to Church but also could’ve shown her the love of Jesus by helping her out. As disciples, it’s important for us to share the gospel, but it is also important to live like Jesus and show His love to others. 1 Timothy 4:16 says “Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.” We know the gospel and we share it as well as live it out so that others can come to know the love of Jesus too and seek Him. Sharing our lives and showing Jesus' love can be eating with someone, encouraging someone, just having a conversation with them about one another's lives. Let’s be mindful of situations where we can show the love of Christ to people through our lives. Have a blessed day!