This lesson was a much needed reminder that as a Christian, I should be more aware of my actions around others.  It made me examine myself to see if what I say is parallel to how I act.

The Thessalonians were given a charge in verse one to live a life that please God; not in a mediocre [average] way but going further and do “more and more.”  Can we ever do too much to please God?  We are to live a Holy and separated life with actions that exemplifies Christ and not of the world; otherwise, how will a difference be made. 

Another repetitive charge that was given to the Thessalonians was to love “more and more.”  We know from John 3:16 that God is love because he proved it.  So as Tina Turner would say, “What’s love got to do with it?”  It has everything to do with our walk with and for God.  Our love is exhibited with action.  For how can we say that we love God and hate our brother? (I John 4:20-21).  If God showed love, than we too are to show love.

Lastly we should be determined to be peaceful, mind our business, and “work with our own hand.”  We should not expect others to serve us and financially support us.  Now God may have someone financially bless us, but we are not to obligate people to do this.  We are to minister; to serve others and support ourselves.

Since our lives are the only epistle [letter] that someone will ever read, we are to make sure that how our actions are speaking louder than our words.  So ask yourself, will others believe Christ because of what they see in me?

 Evangelist Annetta Barnes