| | | | Exceeding Faith; Abounding Love - 2 Thessalonians 1:3 We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting, because your faith grows exceedingly, and the love of every one of you all abounds toward each other… 2 Thessalonians 1:3
As Paul penned this second letter to the church at Thessalonica, he makes a very strong statement about the church: Their faith was growing exceedingly, and their love was abounding towards one another. Paul understood that a true sign of spiritual growth and maturity in Christ are faith, hope, and love (1 Cor 13:13), and he was thankful that it was reported to him that the church was strong in faith and love.
I believe the reason these two attributes are paired together is because you cannot have one without the other. See, the love that Paul is describing here is the Greek word agape, which is a love that goes beyond human ability. It is unconditional love, love that puts others first over ourselves. It is God's love, poured out into our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5). Agape love can only be increased as we grow in our faith and knowledge of Christ. Simply put, growth in faith will result in growth in love.
So the secret to loving one another isn't to try harder, or to have more tolerance for people. The secret is to spend time with Christ, who is the Word (1 John 1:1), and allowing His word with all His wisdom and riches live in us (Col 3:16).
"Heavenly Father, help me to grow in my faith today, with the result being that your love will abound through me to others."
Pastor Clay | | | | | | | |
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