Indebted Forever

While our faith in God is essential to us, it can also be a great encouragement to others.

1 Thessalonians 2.17-3.13

Reference: v.6  But Timothy has just now come to us from you and has brought good news about your faith and love.  He has told us that you always have pleasant memories of us and that you long to see us, just as we also long to see you. (NIV Bible)

Explore:  There are some people in my life that have given me so much that I could never repay them.  Clearly I am not just talking about money here!  But there are a number of people that have invested in me, my family or my ministry and given me so much time and encouragement that I know I could never repay them for all they have done.  These are the type of people that would never expect me to repay them but have committed themselves for no reward.   My parents would have to be at the top of that list.  They gave so much to me when I was a child and dependent upon them, and even now they are generous, loving and constantly encouraging me.  I could never ever repay them for all they have given to me and when I try it seems so miniscule.  No matter how many times I buy them dinner, it could never add up to the money they have paid for my entire daily needs growing up.  No matter how many times I wash their cars, it could never add up to the time they spent taking care of me.  And no matter how many times I read them the Bible after dinner, it could never add up to all the Christian values and teaching that they instilled in me.  I could never repay them.  And to be honest, I get the feeling that they don’t want me to repay them either.  They express that my love and appreciation for them and my devotion to God is repayment enough.

Application:  I get the feeling that this similar relationship was going on between Paul and the Thessalonians.  While Paul was like a parent-in-the-faith to the church in Thessalonica, that he does not desire repayment.  His joy comes from hearing that the church is still strong in faith and love for God.  And even though Paul has given so much to the Thessalonian church he is encouraged by their faith and continued devotion to God.
While our faith in God is essential to us, it can also be a great encouragement to others.  Our commitment to living a Christ-like life is the best reward we could ever give to our mentors and faith-filled guides that impart into our lives.

Prayer:  Lord, there are people here on earth in our lives that give so much to us.  Nothing, however, could ever compare to the love you gave to us.  Thank you for being the best Father of all.  Amen.

Is there someone in your life that has given so much you could never repay them?  Is there someone who you are investing in without requiring reward?

1 Thessalonians