Head: Know God's Word | Heart: Love God | Hands: Follow God's Way
Read 2 Thessalonians 3
HEAD
I love how Paul writes about the big picture and the details. In this chapter, he spurs the church on to let the Lord direct their hearts to the love of God and the steadfastness of Christ. He also warns the church not to be lazy and even says people who aren’t willing to work should not eat. Notice he said “willing” to work. I’m sure he was considerate of those who are physically unable to work but wished they could. Some members of the church in Thessalonica had a misconception. They thought Jesus had already returned or was about to return, so there was no point in working. They’d become idle or lazy because they didn’t see the point in life. Paul sets them straight by positioning their hearts toward Christ and their hands back to work. He had given them an example of how to work for their food when he was with them in person. They hadn’t followed this example because their hope was misplaced. Because they’d listened to false prophets about the return of Christ, they lost their hope in Christ. Paul reminds them of the truth.
HEART
Isn’t it neat how our everyday lives are directly related to the position of our hearts? If our hearts are directed toward God and Christ’s steadfastness, then we will be willing to work. Perhaps work is a gift from God. I haven’t always seen it that way. I am prone to want to lie on the couch and watch TV all day, to “veg out” or “numb out” to a good sitcom. Don’t get me wrong, rest is a good thing. But spiritual rest isn’t the same thing as scrolling on my phone or staring at the TV. God gave us the ability to work and the necessity to work for a reason. Sometimes it’s work that produces rest. It is a gift that helps to provide what our family needs. It also often gives us an avenue to fulfill our purpose to lead people to know, love, and follow Jesus. If our hope is centered on Christ, we’ll be willing to work and see the benefits. What you hope for is what you live for.
HANDS
Kids reading this may think that none of this applies to them since they don’t have jobs. However, you have school and chores. It is a gift to have the opportunity to get an education. You may think you’re just learning random stuff to get to the next grade, but God wants to use what you’re learning to show you more about who He is. Helping with tasks around the house with a good attitude shows that you honor your father and mother, which is the first commandment from God, with a promise. God said to honor your father and mother so that things will go well for you, and you will live for a long time in the land (Ephesians 6:1-3). Simple things like making your bed, helping with dishes, or picking up after yourself show that you value your family. It’s even better if you do those things without being asked. I challenge you to give your schoolwork 100% effort this week and find one way each day to help at your house. I bet you’ll find that life is better for you when you do.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for Your love and steadfastness. Thank You for being worthy of our love and devotion. You are worthy of our hearts. Thank You for the gift of work. Help me to keep my heart and mind fixed on You, Jesus, and to do my work to the best of my ability. All glory and praise is Yours alone. I love You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.