1 Thessalonians 3:7-13

1 Thessalonians 3:7-13 … The euphoria of a good report is evident as Timothy returned from Thessalonica. Their reaction is not worldly backslapping, but pure praise to God for what He has done. Recognizing God’s work in the world around us is a believer’s lifestyle and that’s what we observe in Paul. We might also note the earnestness of prayer (v.10) in passing. Earnest effort is intense, serious and focused. That’s identified for us as a characteristic of prayer here and in James 5:16 … “The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” The focus of Paul’s prayer request is eloquently given: for opportunity (v.11), for spiritual growth for his followers (v.12),  and for steadfastness in their faith (v.13).