June 22nd - 2 Thessalonians 1:11
2 Thessalonians 1:11 It is often rightly pointed out that the Christian life is a marathon and not a sprint. Keeping something up isn’t too difficult if you are doing it for just a short while. But keeping going as a Christian for years on end is a different matter. Living for Christ consistently in the face of all the ups and downs of life is not easy. When you have good health, a steady income, a united family and interesting work to do, it may seem easy. But how do you keep the faith when you are in pain, go through financial problems, family disputes or difficulties at work? Paul’s answer is that God enables us to keep going. He gives us the power to do all the good things that he has called us to do. We must never think of the Christian life as being a heroic solo effort. Although we may feel alone at times, God is beside us always. And we are never without Christian brothers and sisters, even if they may be far away. Our own strength can fluctuate. One day, we feel strong and able to face every challenge. The next, we feel limp and useless. It is important to keep our eyes fixed on God, who is entirely different. He never gets tired or has an ‘off day’. Isaiah wrote: “He never grows weak or weary. He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:28-31). As we pray for one another, let’s specifically pray that our Christian brothers and sisters will know that God is continually strengthening them as they live for him. QUESTION In what specific way do you need spiritual strength at the moment? PRAYER Lord God, I need your strength today. Please come to me in the power of your Holy Spirit and make me strong for you. Amen