Do Not Grow Weary

In 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15, Paul warns the believers against idleness. Because they were expecting Christ to return at any moment, some had quit their jobs and were refusing to work. Some were depending on the kindness and generosity of others. Some were becoming busybodies - like the idle widows in Titus.

Paul urged the believers that were being obedient to God's Word to separate from those who were being disobedient. He further encouraged them to follow the example of Paul and his companions, who - although they could have chosen to live off the generosity of those they served - insisted on working and supporting themselves.

He told the obedient believers: Do not grow weary. Although they were tired of supporting those who were being lazy, they should not stop helping those who were truly in need.

This requires discernment. Discernment to know who has chosen to remain idle and who is truly in need because of difficult circumstances.

As I sit here in my chair on Sunday morning, I think about how perfectly acceptable - in our society - for me to turn my thoughts inward and focus on getting my pain relieved. How it would be perfectly acceptable for me to stop working, to stop looking for ways to serve others. But that is not acceptable in my mind. I do not think that God wants me to think that way. I want to serve in any way I can as long as I can.

I think that, often, our most effective ministry to others occurs in the midst of trials.