“This is evidence of the righteous judgement of God, that you may be considered worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are also suffering-” (2 Thes. 1:5 ESV)
Think about that phrase, “to be considered worthy of the kingdom of God.” Boy, that really puts everything perspective! None of us earned our salvation. But if we are suffering for His sake and therefore are worthy, that certainly lightens the load.
“since indeed God considers it just to repay with affliction those who afflict you,” (2 Thes. 1:6 ESV)
God is our vindicator. If we suffer in this life because we live according to His ways, He will set the record straight.
“and to grant relief to you who are afflicted as well as to us, when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels in flaming fire,” (2 Thes. 1:7 ESV)
And what a day when He comes bursting through the sky to return for us! No evil can harm us anymore.
“inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus.” (2 Thes. 1:8 ESV)
He will give permanent consequences to those who did not know Him. How terribly sad for those who refused the truth.
“They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His might,” (2 Thes. 1:9 ESV)
The only good in this world is because God exists. And to those who turned their backs on Him, all that is left is darkness, for all of eternity.
“when He comes on that day to be glorified in His saints, and to be marveled at among all who have believed, because our testimony to you was believed.” (2 Thes. 1:10 ESV)
But what a glorious reunion for those of us who lived out the great commission, influencing others so that they would have saving faith too.
“To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of His calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by His power.” (2 Thes. 1:11 ESV)
So let us all pray for each other in the faith, that we may follow His lead and live out our lives by the power of the Holy Spirit.
“so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Thes. 1:12 ESV)
And be witnesses to His glory so that future generations may believe and be saved. To God be the glory, amen!
Kellie
Sixty-six books in a year 