We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing. – 2 Thessalonians 1:3
Something is said to be stagnant when it is inactive, lethargic, or sluggish. You have seen stagnant ponds of water where there is no current or flow. It is often unpleasant to be around. The unaerated water can be a breeding ground for bacteria, viruses, and insects like mosquitos. More than just an annoyance, stagnant water may be dangerous, as waterborne pathogens can be dangerous to one’s health. Standing water near structures can cause other damage.
Your faith has the potential to become stagnant. Just as water needs both in- and out-flow, so does your faith. Ann Graham Lotz described spiritual stagnation this way: “Christians today seem to be so saturated in selfishness, so mesmerized by materialism, so engrossed by entertainment, and preoccupied with politics that we are in danger of losing the uniqueness of who we are. Increasingly, the lights of the world are dim, the salt has lost its flavor, the trumpet call is indistinct.”
Virginia Pastor David Jordan noted that, in today’s verse, Paul was commending the Thessalonian believers for having “the seeds of a strong spiritual life. They were growing, they weren’t stagnant.” In addition, for their individual, personal growth, they grew stronger in love and thankfulness for one another. A healthy Christian has a strong in-flow of life in the power of the Spirit of God, reading, studying, and praying. At the same time, that health requires just as much strength in its out-flow, supporting and encouraging one another.
Be active in your faith and receive the revitalization of God’s Spirit in your life. Invest in one another and be thankful. Let your knowledge of God, your devotion to and passion for Jesus, and your submission to the Holy Spirit be a witness to those around you.
Today’s Verse: 2 Thessalonians 1:3
We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Jude 1:17-23
17 But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. 18 They said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.” 19 It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. 20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, 21 keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. 22 And have mercy on those who doubt; 23 save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
