Included among Paul’s writings are two short letters to the church in Thessalonica. Like many of the early churches, there were issues within the congregation, as pressures (both external and internal) were seeking to prevent the body of Christ in this region from functioning to its potential. Paul needed to follow up his first letter to this church with more explicit instruction, as things were deteriorating and, generally speaking, some people were behaving badly. After encouraging the church and reminding them of their future in Christ, Paul expresses a thought that is a message to all who call Jesus, Lord.

 

2 Thessalonians 1:11 So we keep on praying for you, asking God to enable you to live a life worthy of his call. May he give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do.

 

This single verse contains some amazing keys for all Christians: praying for one another, seeking God’s help and utilising the power of God through the Holy Spirit to accomplish works for God in faith. It is within this framework that we are able to live a worthy life.

 

As 2021 begins to pick up speed and we enter into the second month of the year, it is worth considering whether we are holding up our brothers and sisters in Christ in prayer. Paul exhorts fellow believers to maintain a prayer led life (1 Thess 5:16-18, Eph 6:18, 1 Tim 2:1-4, Col 4:2). And this prayer life is not just for our own needs but the needs of others. The pressures against the church look different in every country around the world, however consistent prayer for the church strengthens everyone. A great way to establish regular prayer for others is to set an alarm and pray at a particular time each day. Perhaps find a simple world map and pray for a different country each day…

 

The rest of this verse highlights the role that God plays in our success as Christians. When we come to a place of acknowledging that everything we have within us that is useful for service unto God, is given to us by God, and our empowerment to achieve is enabled by our Creator, then we genuinely are privileged to live a life worthy of the call. This brings to mind the purpose of mankind (Isaiah 43:7) as framed by bringing glory to God.

 

 Finally, opening our hearts to the leading of the Holy Spirit, positions us to be ready to powerfully minister to others. Opportunities not yet imagined occur when God is in control.