1 Thessalonians 3

Paul says in verse (10) “Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith.” To me, several things are happening in this verse.

First, “night and day we pray”, Paul is showing the Thessalonians and us that prayer is an ongoing process, not just a one time event. Paul is taking his needs and wants to God, repeatedly in a continual way, not just once a day, but day and night, he goes to God first.

Next, is how Paul is praying, “most earnestly”. It’s not just an “I hope”, but an earnest prayer with all of his heart. His concerns for the Thessalonians goes well beyond “call me if you need anything”, it is a true, earnest love for his brothers and sisters in Christ. Even if he can’t be there in person, he knows that God can, so he earnestly prays for them.

Then, Paul prays for God allow him to “supply what is lacking in your faith”, which shows two things. First, it continues his concern for their spiritual well being (as mentioned above). Next, it shows that we all need continual renewal of faith. Up to this point, Paul has praised the Thessalonians for their steadfast faith and walk with Christ. He has portrayed them as great servants of Christ and that they have exceeded Paul’s expectations. However, he still realizes that, even though they are doing great, we are all humans and fall short. Therefore, he earnestly prays for God to supply what they need to strengthen their faith.

Wow, what a phenomenal example of a servant of Christ. Someone who continually takes things to God in prayer, earnestly cares and prays for others, and realizes that no matter how great someone is doing, they still need prayers of your support, you can’t forget about them. Why do you think Paul was such a great person? Because he spent this part of his life trying to be like Christ Jesus. When we focus on Jesus’ example and follow as best we can, then God can use us to change people’s lives forever, just as He used Paul. Thank you Lord, You are so good, all the time!