I am always touched by the way Paul ministered to the young converts in Thessalonica. In 1 Thessalonians, Chapter 2, Paul writes, “As you know, like a father with his own children, we encouraged, comforted, and implored each one of you to walk worthy of God, who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.” [vs 11-12 NLT]
What a beautiful picture of both godly fatherhood and godly ministry. First setting an example of holiness, righteousness, and blamelessness. Then encouraging, comforting, and urging others to live lives worthy of God.
The highest calling of every Christian is to live a life worthy of the God who called them. So often we lose track of that. We think our calling is to a specific talent or work, but in truth, our calling is to live our lives worthy of God in every way. Whatever we do, whatever we say, wherever we go, it is always with the thought to be worthy of God.
Paul is encouraged upon seeing their steadfastness even amid the persecution that arose because of their decision to follow Christ. The one who first preached the Gospel to them by encouraging, comforting, and urging them to a worthy life, is now receiving back from them encouragement, comfort and an urging to press on even more in his own ministry.
“For now we live, if you stand firm in the Lord. How can we thank God for you in return for all the joy we experience before our God because of you.” [3:6-9 NLT]
There is something beautiful about the exchange of encouragement that happens when we lift and help others along in their Christian walk – what we receive back strengthens us in our own walk.