“But we proved to be gentle among you, as a nursing mother tenderly cares for her own children. Having so fond an affection for you, we were well-pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become very dear to us” (1 Thessalonians 2:7-8).
The ultimate goal, as far as we are able to see, is the relationships that are built as a result of the Gospel taking root. It is not accomplishing some big venture, but building up the family of God in Christ and by His grace. Come then and live into the life to which You have been called. Know that in Him is true life and that He will knit You into His family, His bride, the church.
Lord, help me to see the greater things and live into the hope which is mine in You. Guide me into the depths of understanding You offer by Your Spirit so that I may be guided by You and not by the world. Help me to hold dear those amidst You place me in order that I may live in the relationships You are establishing. Through all these things, accomplish in me what You intend so that I may always be Yours and You, mine.
Thank You, Jesus, for the gift of family. You are knitting together Your family, Your bride, the church. Let me never buy into the nonsense that fellowship does not matter. It is the thing You are doing. Guide me to learn how to be faithful and live into this life You are giving me. Help me now and always to see through the ways of the world and to live according to the way You are teaching me. Amen.
