Today's Scripture
Question #17 – 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13
– How do I spend my spare time?
6 Now we command you, beloved, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from believers who are living in idleness and not according to the tradition that they received from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us; we were not idle when we were with you, 8 and we did not eat anyone’s bread without paying for it; but with toil and labor we worked night and day, so that we might not burden any of you. 9 This was not because we do not have that right, but in order to give you an example to imitate. 10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this command: Anyone unwilling to work should not eat. 11 For we hear that some of you are living in idleness, mere busybodies, not doing any work. 12 Now such persons we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living. 13 Brothers and sisters, do not be weary in doing what is right.
RJ's Devotion
As we start 2017, we wanted to examine the 22 questions of John Wesley. He challenged his followers to ask these rigorous self-examining questions, as they walk toward holiness. For the next four weeks, we will examine each question, daily. Also, I encourage you to read the ‘One Year Bible Reading Plan’ suggested by Bishop Sharma Lewis.
What the passage says
V. 6-7 The apostle points out to the believers, who in their lifestyle didn’t reflect the teachings. They taught to live life in the fullness, by diligently living for the mission of God. However, some have fallen into the trap of complacency. Since they can be a negative influence on others, the apostles take a strong stance against them.
V. 8-9 The apostle talks about how they are faithful in their walk, to spread the message of Christ. He says that they diligently carry out their mission, as they also work hard.
V. 10-13 Therefore, the apostle challenge the people, who are idle, to get back on track to follow the mission of God.
“How do I spend my spare time.”
How we use our spare time is deeply connected with how we go about with our day. Spare time shouldn’t be thought of as a time to do ‘whatever I want,’ but rather be a time to replenish ourselves for our next day.
John Wesley is asking this questions to followers, in the same way, Paul is challenging the believers. We need to set our eyes on the mission of God and examine our life to see how faithful we are following this journey. That is also why accountability is important. We need to encourage and challenge each other for the purpose.
Prayer
Lord, be with us today. Help us to use our time wisely, remembering that we live for your glory. In Christ name, we pray, AMEN
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