Scripture:
2 Thessalonians 1:4-10
Sat, 13 August 2022

Theological Anchors for Discipleship Adversities

Observation:

What is the significance of the passage being filled with references to God?

Deeper Reflection
VERSES 4 TO 10 IS HIGHLY THEOLOGICAL – THAT IS, THE text is filled with references to God. The theological portrait of God here is painted against the backdrop of faithful endurance in suffering (v.4). From it we can derive four theological anchors for discipleship adversities.Kingship of God: As seen in “considered worthy of the kingdom of God” (v.5). The “kingdom of God” refers to “the kingly rule, the reign, the dominion and the sovereignty of God in the hearts of people”16. The lordship of Christ in our lives is expressed in our worship to God. In our adversities, we worship God, “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21). Righteousness of God: As shown in “the righteous judgment of God” (v.5). When we anchor in the righteousness of God, we can live with injustice. Our deep conviction is: However things may go wrong in our lives, God is never wrong.Vengeance of God: As pointed in God “inflicting vengeance” (v.8). God is an “avenging and wrathful” God, who “takes vengeance” on “His enemies” for His people (Nah 1:2). But this God is also “slow to anger” (Nah 1:3). This divine patience means we have to wait patiently for God to act. Presence of God: This “presence of the Lord” (v.9) is the future fully revealed presence of God. But God’s presence with us now can sometimes be concealed: “How long will You hide Your face from me?” (Psa 13:1). Yet, we are assured: “I will not fail you or forsake you” (Deut 31:8).
16 James A. Brooks, Mark, The New American Commentary (Broadman, 1991), 47
Application:

What is like for me to regularly make God as the point of reference in my life?

Prayer:
Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.
Prayer Pointers:
  • Give thanks and praise
  • Pray for Church Board: To see and place God as the centre of adversities
  • Pray for significant people
  • Pray for those in need
  • Pray for self

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Daily Devo
Daily Devotional Journal
Sun, 31 December 2023

Sunday Journal

Past Week’s Review
  • What was my high point and my low point for the week?
  • What gave me life and what drained me?
  • How was the Spirit of God at work?
Reflect

What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond

What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying?
Commit in prayer.

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