Devo 1 Thes 3

I Thessalonians 3:6-12
6. But Timothy has just now come to us from you and has brought good news
about your faith and love. He has told us that you always have pleasant memories
of us and that you long to see us, just as we also long to see you. 7. Therefore,
brothers, in all our distress and persecution we were encouraged about you because
of your faith. 8. For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord. 9.
How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the
presence of our God because of you? 10. Night and day we pray most earnestly
that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith. 11. Now may
our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus clear the way for us to come to
you. 12. May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and
for everyone else, just as ours does for you.

Meditation:
1. The Thessalonians’ testimony of faith and love comforted and encouraged
Paul. Similarly, your testimony can also provide much needed encouragement
to fellow believers, your cell leaders, Sunday school teachers, and even pastors.
We can also be encouraged by the stories of other members of our community of faith.
2. Have I had the privilege of hearing the testimony of a fellow believer? Is
there anyone at church I’d like to share my experiences or reflections with?
Pray that God will use my sharing to encourage that person.
3. Take time each day this week to reflect and be aware of God’s work in your
life and find someone to share how you are experiencing God in your life.
Then, bring these stories to your cell group and share with each other there.

Personal Note:
In my early days as a believer in Christ, I was touched by the testimonies shared.  I have to confess I was falling asleep during the Baptism service.  When it was the time for the brothers and sisters to share their testimony, I was still dozing off.  The more I listen, the more I was interested and really felt convicted that the   love of Jesus Christ was at work in those believer's lives.  I encourage all believers in Crossroads to prepare and share your testimonies.