You also became imitators of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much tribulation with the joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. For the word of the Lord has sounded forth from you, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith toward God has gone forth, so that we have no need to say anything. – 1 Thessalonians 1:6-8
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What an amazing story this is… I just love this chapter, short as it is. It is powerful.
But did you see why? I mean, weren’t plenty of churches being formed and grown in this period of time? Yes! Weren’t many upstanding men and women doing wonderful things for Christ? Absolutely!
So why this church? Why is this group singled out as a beacon… no, a trumpet for the Lord? The word of their faith had spread so far and wide, beyond their local or even near distant areas. The message was being spread with joy to such an extent that the dedicated messengers didn’t even need to tell it! Why?
Look at this phrase:
having received the word in much tribulation with the joy of the Holy Spirit
These folks had suffered. They had much tribulation, coupled with unexplainable joy.
Do you suffer? Do you face tribulation and trials?
The you, my sweet friend, are a missionary in your own right. That’s right! You are shouting of the Lord from the rooftops without ever even saying a word. Your light is shining so far and wide and bright that no one needs any further message. Your joy, which is the joy of the Holy Spirit, is doing what no group of words strung together could ever do for the hearts of the lost and wandering.
You present a holy paradox and a perfect mystery that draws people to Christ as surely as a bee to clover.
Never doubt your calling. Ring the message out!
Dear Lord, thank You that You are able to use even such a one as I in order to draw souls to You. May I proclaim you with my every breath and thought. May my supernatural joy be known. In Jesus’ Name, Amen…
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May God Bless You,
Shelly
Tribulation and joy do seem to couple together. “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”
Thank you for sharing this verse.
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Amen, Rebekah! Love that verse! Heart Hugs, Shelly <3
Beautiful encouragement, as always, Shelly. “May my supernatural joy be known.” Amen!!
Love you.
Thanks, Beth! Love you! Heart Hugs, Shelly <3