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1 Thessalonians 4:9,10 "For you yourselves are taught by God to love one another;... But we urge you, brethren, that you increase more and more;"
Theirs was a natural outflowing of the poured out love of God in their hearts towards the other members of the family of God. What a challenge the Thessalonians are to us! They were not long in the school of Christ, and in the apostle's doctrine, yet they need no basic teaching on loving one another. They were "taught by God". Their spirits were informed by the Holy Spirit who also influenced the spirit conscience in responsibility towards the family of God - pouring through them God's own love. An emphasis is put on not stopping practical loving, but to "increase". Don't be content with present attainments but more and more abundantly overflow in practical love.
Their love was overflowing to their neighbourhood and country - let it now extend to other countries - and beyond the family of God, reaching out to the lost. Some never see or feel beyond the local situation. The love of His commission must be our passionate mission, abounding "to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:9 ). Keep going on in the practical deeds of His love.
In this way you can avoid unrest, even strife, and live in peace. Worldly ambition promotes disquietude and unrest - ambitiously pursuing His peace brings rest and work occupation that glorifies God. Don't be of those who want to make a big splash, trying to tell everyone else what they should be doing. Do your own work faithfully as a peaceful provider.
Idleness can be the breeding ground for soulish meddling and disturbance of others. "Keep busy till Jesus comes" is a watchword that will keep us walking in peace. Seek peace and pursue it (1 Peter 3:11 ). Our walk before God is to be seen in our daily work.
We are not to be busybodies, but good, reliable workers so that outsiders are not repelled by inconsistent conduct that does not behave in accordance with our faith. They are to see the reality of our faith in action. We are to remember that we are being watched by wistful as well as critical eyes.
Another reason for a practical, purposeful lifestyle is so that we may be good providers for ourselves and those dependent on us. Good work is rewarded by "no lack," God prospering us through our labours. There is no such blessing promised for the lazy. Working well brings godly independence, when the time comes when we can no longer work. This does not mean, when we have done all to ensure no lack, and inflation and national conditions leave us needing, that we should be too proud to accept help. It is a privilege to come to the aid of faithful fellow christians (Matthew 25:40 ). Those who have an eye on the coming Lord will also keep an eye of compassion on the needy in the family of God.
His death for us ensures our life with Him. Whether we are physically alive (wake) or dead (physically asleep) we should live in union with Him. We are to be comforted and built up by this teaching (1 Thessalonians 4:11 ). What fortification for bereaved - troubled - and persecuted saints.
Do you believe that not being occupied in service can lead to meddling with, and disturbance of others?
Do you have a responsibility towards those outside the faith?
Do you think God will prosper the lazy?