-Walking in Wisdom- Standing Firm (2 Thessalonians 2)

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Today´s Scripture: 2 Thessalonians 2
As we read through this scripture we find that the Thessalonians were going through such trials and persecutions and by the preaching of false teachers they even came to believe they had missed the coming back of Jesus (the Rapture) and that they had been left behind! They were going through so much that they thought they were actually in the Tribulation! 
Imagine all the questions, insecurities and the fear. It must have been overwhelming!  But when Paul realized this situation he urged them to keep from false teachings, as he wrote:
“Now in regard to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our [a]gathering together to meet Him, we ask you, [b]brothers and sisters, not to be quickly unsettled or alarmed either by a [so-called prophetic revelation of a] spirit or a message or a letter [alleged to be] from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has [already] come. Let no one in any way deceive or entrap you…” (2:1-3a)
Paul reminds his Church about his teachings regarding this matter (2:3b-12) and continues to encourage this young and growing church just like a father would, letting them know that God has this and will not forsake them because they are his beloved children:
“But we should and are [morally] obligated [as debtors] always to give thanks to God for you, believers beloved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning for salvation through the [e]sanctifying work of the Spirit [that sets you apart for God’s purpose] and by your faith in the truth [of God’s word that leads you to spiritual maturity” (2:13)
Paul also affirms God’s purpose and faithfulness:
It was to this end that He called you through our gospel [the good news of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection], so that you may obtain and share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. (2:14)
Finally he urges them to stand firm in their faith:
So then, [f]brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold [tightly] to the traditions which you were taught, whether by word of mouth or by letter from us.” (2:15)
But what about us in today`s world situation? There are also many people filled with fear and with so many questions regarding this virus that has set our world in shock and the end of times!  Let me remind you of Jesus´ words:
“ And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in diverse places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.” (Matthew 24:4-8 KJV Emphasis mine)
We as the Thessalonians are so privileged to have God´s Word in such a time like this, and we should also stand firm and hold to the Word of Truth because He is with us and strengthening us, because His Comforter is with us (John 14:26) and Jesus is our Peace :
Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.]” (John 14:27)

Paul exhorts us to remain steadfast and vigilant:
-Whenever we face persecution and tribulations: 2 Thessalonians1:4
- Because of the coming judgment of this world, we must remain watchful: 2 Thessalonians1:8
-Because of our glorious future in Christ:  2 Thessalonians 2:14

Finally Paul ends this letter with the following Benediction:
Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting comfort and encouragement and the good [well-founded] hope [of salvation] by His grace, 17 comfort and encourage and strengthen your hearts [keeping them steadfast and on course] in every good work and word.”(2:16-17 AMP)
Amen! May we continue to stand firm and courageous in our faith as we serve others in His love and in His Truth, until Jesus comes back to take us Home! (John 14:3)

Blessings my sisters!!


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