Paul's letter to the Thessalonians is full of good advice for servants of the Most High God as they live among people "which walk among you disorderly" (v.11). But Paul instructs us, "But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing." (2 Thessalonians 3:13)

Sometimes it's hard to not grow weary in our well doing when others around us appear to be carefree in their disorderly lifestyles.

Sometimes we need a gentle reminder. Sometimes we need to remember that although our "well doing" may be costly to our flesh, it is "the Lord of peace himself [who will] give [us] peace always by all means"(v. 16). In other words, it's worth whatever it takes to allow "the Lord [to] direct our hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ" (v. 5).

We live in a world filled with people seeking their own pleasures, building their own "kingdoms," and storing up their own treasures. The hearts of unredeemed mankind are provoked by nothing less than feeding every fleshly desire that stirs their heart. Their hearts are cold and indifferent to the needs and suffering of others unless by somehow reaching out will benefit them personally. Their flesh craves gratification and their lifestyles feed that craving no matter what it takes.

But we seek to please God, to deny our flesh, to serve one another. And, that's why Paul reminded the people at Thessalonica to "be not weary in well doing." The words still ring true today and bring with them the promise that God will reward us for our life of sacrifice to Him and to others.

Are you tired of living for others? Are you tired of constantly denying your flesh of things that appear to be full of pleasure? Are you tired of laboring for the Kingdom of God? Take heed, dear ones . . . "be not weary in well doing" and know that the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ will be with you always.

Father, it seems as if Paul could see into this day and hour when so many are becoming weary in battle. The flesh is weak and craves to be fed yet we rejoice as we die daily for the sake of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Empower us, Lord, to continue and to not be weary in our well doing. Grant us peace as we live in a world filled with chaos motivated by selfishness and self-serving attitudes. In Jesus' name, for His glory . . . amen and amen.

© Jan Ross
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