Overcomer - Busy in a Good Way!

Friday  October 16

2 Thessalonians 3:6-15

6 In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teaching you received from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, 8 nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. 9 We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate. 10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.”

11 We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. 12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat. 13 And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.

14 Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. Do not associate with them, in order that they may feel ashamed. 15 Yet do not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as you would a fellow believer.

In this passage the Apostle Paul strongly corrects the false notion that just because we know Jesus and just because we are assured of a home in heaven, we should not settle in and settle down.  This entire passage is a call to action.  No more idle, lazy living. Period.

Reflect

Questions

Read this passage slowly and out loud.  Listen to the strong tone of warning and correction in it.

Sometimes we start to slack off in our faith.  How can you keep from letting things slip?

Prayer

Father God, I know that with you in my life I am on the winning side.  This can make me more energetic and purposeful or it can lead me to a more casual Christianity.  Help me to stay on task with you as long as I live.  Make me busy in a good way and never ever a busybody. Amen.

Memory Verse

Hebrews 6:10 --  "God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them."

Share

Gather some family and friends together and read this passage. Then discuss this question:  This passage is designed to fire us up for God.  How does it make you feel and why?

DFM Nation

Next Sunday Pastor Glenn Teal will teach on the topic “Purity overcomes Lust.”  This is a great Sunday to invite a friend.  Pray for an open opportunity to do just that!