Concern

Waiting is truly very difficult. It is hard to learn to wait patiently without anxiety and apprehension, especially when it is news of a loved one or a close friend you wish to receive. Even in our modern day of super-fast communications and travel, it isn’t always possible to pack up and go to them. This was true for Paul, so he did the next best thing: he sent a fellow worker, Timothy.

Paul’s concern for the Thessalonians was not brought about by doubt, but rather by his great love for them. Timothy was sent not to spy, but rather as a friend, ready to give them spiritual help. Paul wondered – had their faith wavered under the adverse circumstances of persecution? Would personal ease, material possessions, social prominence, or the loss of any of these influence their faith negatively? Had Paul’s teaching regarding the worthlessness of these in comparison to the gain of Christ really won out? Another danger threatened: had Satan the tempter prevailed? How often he had attacked Paul, but to no avail. But what of his converts? Could Satan regain his lost authority? Paul was concerned.

How about you? Are you concerned? New converts today are in no less danger than were the Thessalonians. Satan’s power is still as strong and relentless as ever in its hope to destroy a new-found faith. Is your concern vital enough to bring encouragement and help to a new convert? Paul was not content to remain idle. Can we do less? – Rev. Edwin A. Martin (7-10-67)