13 But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord, because God chose you as firstfruits to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth. 14 He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Are you a believer in the saving grace of Jesus Christ? You too were called. It is not accident that you are here.
15 So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.
Don't let emotions, politics, fear, family, job or anything else persuade you to walk away. You were called of God, heard the truth, believed and accepted the truth. Keep it.
16 May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, 17 encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.
Another great prayer in the Bible. In fact I just texted this to someone telling them it is my prayer for them today.
As for other matters, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you.
I've just been convicted that I don't pray that the gospel will spread. That will change.
2 And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil people, for not everyone has faith.
Pray that God will protect you leaders as they share the gospel. Pray he will protect the missionaries we send out.
3 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. 4 We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.
Do you have a relationship, with the leaders in your church, that they could say this about you? I realize some pastors are distant or just busy and can't be close with everyone, but I do encourage you to form a relationship with an elder or deacon and build that closeness so that you too can encourage the leadership of you church with you life.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you spirit, brothers and sisters. Amen.
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