Read: 2 Thessalonians 3:1-5
Key Verse: v3:
But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.
What Does it Mean?
Paul acknowledges that “not everyone has faith” (v2) and that we cohabit the world with those who have wicked or evil intentions towards us. His words weren’t meant to ignite fear in the hearts of the church at Thessalonica, but rather were a simple statement of fact. Every Christian needs to remember that they are in a battle – not necessarily a visible one, either. As Ephesians 6:12 warns us, “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (NIV). The devil was defeated at Calvary, but he is persistent in his attempts to get us to give up the freedom we have through Christ. When the storms of life threaten to throw us off course, the evil one is ready and waiting to take advantage of our weakness. That is why Paul asked that the Thessalonians uphold him and his companions in prayer. Prayer is one of the most powerful weapons we have in our arsenal against our enemy the devil. Prayer keeps our focus on God, who, as Paul declares, is “faithful and…will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one” (v3, NIV). Prayer can be the last thing on our mind when we have a million and one things going wrong, but it should be the first thing on our lips. Without it, we leave ourselves open and vulnerable to the devil who prowls around waiting for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8).
Bottom Line
We don’t just inhabit the earth – we cohabit it, sharing the world with those without faith, and others who are being used as instruments of evil. Whilst it’s important to remember this truth, we shouldn’t let it drive us towards fear, because, as Paul reminds us, our God is faithful, and He strengthens us, equips us, and protects us from evil. We can trust that even evil intentions towards us can be used by God for the purposes of good (see Romans 8:28, Genesis 50:20).
Journaling and Reflection
- As Christians we need to be aware that evil is real, and guard ourselves against it through prayer and trust in God. What is your prayer-life like? How connected do you feel to God?
- Re-read verse 3. How does this statement about God make you feel? Why?
- Prayer is one of the most powerful weapons we have in our spiritual arsenal. What other weapons has God given us? (See Ephesians 6:10-18)
Prayer Pointers
Thank God that He is faithful and strengthens us in our spiritual battles. Ask Him to help you keep prayer as the first thing on your lips in all situations.