April 18, 2026

djohnstoncc
1 day ago
2 min read

FAITH, HOPE AND LOVE IN ACTION

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“This letter is from Paul, Silas, and Timothy. We are writing to the church in Thessalonica... We always thank God for all of you and pray for you constantly. As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your faithful work, your loving deeds, and the enduring hope you have because of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

1 Thessalonians 1:1-3 NLT

TODAY’S THOUGHT

Today we begin a journey through 1 Thessalonians. Written around AD 50, this is one of Paul’s earliest letters, and it reads like a thank-you note to a young church he deeply loved.

Thessalonica was a bustling hub of trade and diversity, which brought plenty of challenges to the early Christians living there. Yet, Paul doesn’t start with a lecture; he starts with an observation. He noticed three things that made this church stand out:

1. Faith that Works

Faith isn't just a set of facts; it’s a movement. Paul calls it "faithful work." If we believe God is who He says He is, it should change how we spend our time and energy.

2. Love that Labors

Real love is more than a sentiment; it has a price tag. Just as God "so loved the world that He gave," our love for others is measured by our willingness to sacrifice for them.

3. Hope that Endures

Hope is the "difference maker." It’s the ability to keep your head up when the world feels like it’s pressing in. For these believers, hope wasn’t wishful thinking—it was a confident endurance based on the reality of Jesus.

Today’s Reflection

Faith: Is your faith "working" today? What is one small step of obedience you can take?
Love: Who in your circle needs to see God’s love through a sacrifice of your time or resources?
Hope: If you’ve felt critical or heavy-hearted lately, ask the Holy Spirit to renew your "enduring hope."

TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, I want to be a person characterized by faith, love, and hope. Show me where I’ve missed the mark and empower me to demonstrate these qualities to everyone I meet today. Amen.

“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”