November 12, 2015
Scripture Reading: 1 Thessalonians 2:7b-8
Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, 8so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.
Questions for Reflection:
How did Paul feel about the church at Thessalonica? How does Paul illusrate his care for the church? Why is that image so powerful? When a baby is nursing, what are they capable of doing on their own? How important is the nourishment and care that their mother provides? Paul wants the church to know that he loves them to that extent. In what way did Paul share his love with the church?
Paul’s statement in verse 8 can be very convicting as well. He said his love drove him to not only share the gospel with them, but their lives with them. What do you think the Thessalonians learned from Paul, Silas and Timothy sharing their life with them? Who are you sharing life? Who gets to learn how the gospel is impacting your life when things are going well? Who gets to learn how the gospel fills you with hope even in the midst of failures? If you are not intentional in living life with others, what step can you take today to begin?