Do What is Right

Our Love for God

Loving God, Trusting Christ

Hold Fast to God's Love

2 Thessalonians 3:6-13 Amplified Bible 

6 Now we command you, believers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and by His authority, that you withdraw and keep away from every brother or sister who leads an undisciplined life and does not live in accordance with the tradition and teaching that [a]you have received from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example, because we did not act in an undisciplined or inappropriate manner when we were with you [we were never idle or lazy, nor did we avoid our duties], 8 nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it, but with labor and hardship we worked night and day [to pay our own way] so that we would not be a financial burden on any of you [for our support]; 9 not because we do not have a right to such support, but [we provided our own financial support] to offer ourselves as a model for you, so that you would follow our example. 10 For even while we were with you, we used to give you this order: if anyone is not willing to work, then he is [b]not to eat, either. 11 Indeed, we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined and inappropriate life, doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies [meddling in other people’s business]. 12 Now such people we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and work quietly and earn their own food and other necessities [supporting themselves instead of depending on the hospitality of others]. 13 And as for [the rest of] you, [c]believers, do not grow tired or lose heart in doing good [but continue doing what is right without weakening].

For Reflection
How does one deal with variations in the faith discipline?  All of us in the network of believers are at different levels of maturity. It is the responsibility of the group to raise up each other to higher qualities of faith. But, some move forward more slowly, and some show little commitment to their faith. If one does not work at one's spiritual life one does not grow incrementally into the grace one was promised.  Those who lag in spiritual growth should be encouraged.  We are counseled to support each other and let God judge our righteousness. 

Pray

Pray so that you will see the network of believers as God might see them, each growing into grace as they are willing and able to do so.

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