Living by Faith or Fear

Scripture – 1 Thessalonians 2:14-16: ¹⁴For you, brothers, became imitators of God’s churches in Judea, which are in Christ Jesus: You suffered from your own countrymen the same things those churches suffered from the Jews, ¹⁵who killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets and also drove us out. They displease God and are hostile to all men ¹⁶in their effort to keep us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. In this way they always heap up their sins to the limit. The wrath of God has come upon them at last.

Reflection: Living in Christ will set us apart in the wider community. The Kingdom perspective is nearly the complete opposite of our culture’s perspective. As I truly and faithfully walk in the Way of Christ, tensions will arise. I will find myself faced with choices that have real implications. Sometimes they are serious implications.

In the first century, people put their lives at risk by proclaiming Jesus Christ as Lord. On a daily basis, most suffered great loss, as well. Faith in Christ could get one cut out of your family. It could cost you your job. You might not be allowed to shop in the marketplace.

In the face of that, why am I such a timid Christian today? Where I live puts me at risk for none of those things. Yet I let my fear of what people might think of me influence my behavior more than I care to admit.

Lord Jesus, I’m sorry. Give me courage and wisdom today to live in your Way. Keep me open to whatever opportunities arise to stand for you and with you.

Reading for Sunday, September 7

Scripture – 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20: ¹⁷But, brothers, when we were torn away from you for a short time (in person, not in thought), out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you. ¹⁸For we wanted to come to you—certainly I, Paul, did, again and again—but Satan stopped us. ¹⁹For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? ²⁰Indeed, you are our glory and joy.