Blessedness: ^“1 Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. ² Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord does not count against them and in whose spirit is no deceit” (Ps 32:1-2).

• The most serious sin is the sin which could be countered against us before God (Ps 32:2).

To be close to God is true happiness is the constant theme of Psalm 32–a penitential psalm that focuses on the blessing of forgiveness (Ps 32:1-2), the joy of reconciliation with God (Ps 32:5), and the importance of confession and repentance (Ps 32:3-4). It encourages believers to experience the freedom and joy of forgiveness, urging them to confess their sins and rely on God’s grace. It reminds us that the Lord is a refuge for the repentant and that His guidance and love bring true peace, the peace that follows when one is restored to a right relationship with God.

Outline:

1. Sin forgiven (Ps 32:1-2). Blessed are the forgiven.
2. Deadlock broken (Ps 32:3-5). Groaning from God’s heavy hand due to unconfessed sin (Ps 32:3-4) replaced by confession and forgiveness (Ps 32:5).
3. The only haven (Ps 32:6-7). Prayer is the answer for everyone (Ps 32:6). God as a place of refuge and protection (Ps 32:7).
4. The lesson to be learnt (Ps 32:8-9). I will teach you. God’s guidance and instruction.
5. The only happiness (Ps 32:10-11). Unfailing love surrounds the trustful. Warning against unrepentance and the joy of the righteous, i.e. the joy of forgiveness.

Questions:

1. What does “blessed” mean (Ps 32:1-2; Rom 4:6-8)?
   • How do you become blessed (Rom 4:5; Gen 15:6; Ps 103:12; Isa 43:25; Mt 1:21)?
   • How do the blessed live (Ps 1:1-2; 119:1-2)?
   • Who are the blessed (Ps 144:15)?
   • How do the blessed feel (Rom 5:1)?
   • How does God feel about the blessed (Lk 15:7)?
2. What is the result of unconfessed sin (Ps 32:3-4)?
   • How does it affect your relationship with God and others?
   • Is David’s adultery with Bathsheba the context of this psalm (Ps 51:3-4, 8)?
   • Was David burdened by a guilty conscience (Ps 38:4)?
   • What did David do (2 Sam 12:13)?
   • What should you do (Ps 32:5-6; Prov 28:13; Isa 55:6; 1 Jn 1:9)?
   • Must you confess your sin before you can be forgiven (Jas 4:7-10)?
   • OR are you first forgiven which enables you to confess your sins (Mk 1:15; Lk 3:3; 24:47)?
3.  What does it mean for God to be our “hiding place” (Ps 32:7; 91:1-2; Isa 32:2)?
4. What is the relationship between God’s guidance (Ps 32:8; Jn 16:13) and human free will (Ps 32:9)?
5.  Why should you not be wicked but trust God (Ps 32:10)? How (Prov 3:5-6)?
   • What is the relationship between forgiveness and joy (Ps 32:11)?

Video: (12/15/24): ALONE (Psalm 142). UNRIGHTEOUS (Psalm 143).

No one cares: “Look and see, there is no one at my right hand; no one is concerned for me. I have no refuge; no one cares for my life” (Ps 142:4).

• What do you do when you’re in trouble (Ps 142:2)? When you feel all alone (Ps 142:4)? When you know that you are not righteous (Ps 143:2)?

Free me from my prison: “Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need; rescue me from those who pursue me, for they are too strong for me. ⁷ Set me free from my prison, that I may praise your name. Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me” (Ps 142:6-7).

[Titles: Alone. Lonely. Hemmned in. No refuge but you. My only refuge. I have no one Lord, but you. Man–forsaken, not God–forsaken. Sheltering under pressure. Prayer ascends from low places. Emotions and prayer. God alone is my portion in the land of the living.]

1. My plea (Ps 142:1-2).
2. My plight (Ps 142:3-4).
3. My portion (Ps 142:5).
4. My prospect (Ps 142:6-7).

Everone has troubles. Everyone has difficulties. Everyone needs to learn how to handle troubles and difficulties better. Everyone is “aware of the afflictions of their own hearts” (1 Ki 8:38) and has troubles big enough to trouble you that no one else truly knows but God in Christ.

Recurrent theme. Psalm 142 is a lament by one who is in deep distress and feeling all alone in the face of those pursuing him. This is not a rare occurance that occurs once in the O.T. and once in the N.T. but a theme that repeats over and over again throughout the Scriptures. Job says that“man is born to trouble as surely as sparks fly upward“ (Job 5:7). [Elijah. Paul. Jesus. Ps 31:1. 2 Tim 3:12.]

Alone. David cries out to be set “free from my prison” (Ps 142:7), which could be literal or figurative, likely the latter as the title reflects that he was in a cave when pursued by Saul, possibly at Adullam (1 Sam 22:1, 4) or En Gedi (1 Sam 24:3) making it a companion piece to Psalm 57. Together the 2 psalms give us some idea of the fluctuating state of David’s emotions in the ordeal. Psalm 57 is bold and animated, almost enjoying the situation for the certainty of its triumphant outcome. In Psalm 142 the strain of being hated and hunted is almost too much, and faith is at full stretch. His only way out is God. His 2 arguments are “I’m despondent and they’re way stronger.” But his faith is undefeated, as in the final words it is at last joined by hope (Ps 142:7).

Don’t say on a bad day, “There’s no where to go but up,” for it can go down farther the next day. Only your prayers, if heart felt and sincere, can go up. Heb 13:5. 2 kinds of imaginings: daydreaming and imagining by faith (Ps 142:7). Christian faith is not a pie in the sky by and by when you die, but God delivering you from this difficulty and affliction now in real time in history. 1 Ki 8:38.

Psalm 142 is a poignant reminder of the importance of expressing our struggles to God. These quotes highlight the themes of vulnerability, dependence, and the assurance of God’s presence in times of distress.

1. “In this Psalm, David pours out his soul before God in a time of distress, teaching us that the best remedy for our troubles is to seek the Lord with all our heart.” Charles Spurgeon.
2. “David, in this Psalm, acknowledges his own helplessness and the need for God’s deliverance, reminding us that true strength lies in our dependence on God.” John Calvin.
3. “Psalm 142 is a profound expression of human vulnerability, reflecting the deep need for divine companionship in moments of isolation and despair.” Rabbi Jonathan Sacks.
4. “This Psalm reveals the raw honesty required in prayer; it is a model for bringing our fears and sorrows before God, trusting in His faithfulness.” NT Wright.
5. “The lament in Psalm 142 invites us to articulate our pain and confusion, recognizing that God hears our cries and meets us in our darkest moments.” Walter Brueggermann.
6. “In times of trouble, Psalm 142 teaches us to turn our hearts toward God, illuminating the path from despair to hope through prayer.” Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel.

No One is Righteous: “Do not bring your servant into judgment, for no one living is righteous before you” (Ps 143:2). [Unrighteous. My spirit fails. God’s faithfulness, not mine. No one is righteous. No one is righteous before you. Lead me on level ground. When sinners withstand the wicked. Hope for the persecuted soul. In times of thirst. Deliver me from my enemies. Thy lovingkindness. The end.] David is in deep distress, pleading God with great urgency (Ps 143:1), not complaining.

1. Unrighteous (Ps 143:1-2).
2. Fainting (Ps 143:3-6).
3. Pleading (Ps 143:7-10).
4. Righteousness (Ps 143:11-12).

Luther’s Pauline psalms. Martin Luther loved all the Psalms and his flock knew he had many favourites but one day he was pressed to state which Psalms were the best. “Psalmi Paulini,” he answered and then he went on to number them; “The 32nd, the 51st, the 130th, and the 143rd. For they all teach that the forgiveness of our sins comes, without the law and without works, to the man who believes, and therefore I call them Pauline Psalms.”

Psalm 143 emphasizes the importance of seeking God’s guidance and presence in times of trouble. These quotes reflect the themes of lament, hope, and the transformative power of prayer, encouraging believers to turn to God in their darkest hours.

1. “In this Psalm, David seeks not only deliverance from his enemies but also guidance in the paths of righteousness, demonstrating a heart that longs for divine direction.” Charles Spurgeon.
2. “David’s plea for God’s Spirit to lead him shows the necessity of divine guidance, reminding us that without God’s direction, we are lost in our own ways.” John Calvin.
3. “Psalm 143 encapsulates the struggle between despair and hope, illustrating how prayer can transform our darkest moments into opportunities for divine connection.” Rabbi Jonathan Sacks.
4. “This Psalm is a profound reminder that in our moments of deepest anguish, we can still cry out to God, seeking His presence and trusting in His salvation.” NT Wright.
5. “In Psalm 143, the lament is not just about personal distress; it is a communal call to remember God’s past faithfulness as a foundation for hope in the future.” Wlater Brueggermann.
6. “The urgency of David’s prayer in Psalm 143 teaches us that in moments of spiritual drought, we must seek God’s presence and allow Him to renew our spirits.” Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel.

Loneliness (Reddit, 12/15/2024) [edited]:

Hi everyone,

This isn’t a post to get sympathy, but I could really use some advice.

I’ve lived in a city for a few years now, 1st as a student and now as a graduate. I am a 23M. My student experience was heavily impacted by Covid like most (therefore not getting a “student experience”). My 1st and 2nd years were largely isolated with limited opportunities to meet people, and my social life took a big hit. By 3rd year, I focused on my placement, in my final year, I was consumed by a demanding degree.

Now I’m done with uni, and feeling quite lonely. I have some friends, but it feels like I’m a 2nd thought to them even tho I try to be the friend to them I’d want for myself and try to reach out. I’ve met people through activities like sports, but the connections feel shallow. Everyone is nice, but it’s like no one wants to move beyond being just acquaintances in that particular activity.

I’m struggling to build meaningful friendships and connections. Loneliness is taking a toll on my mental health. Living in a city and feeling isolated is really tough.

I’d really appreciate any practical advice on how to deal with this. Thanks!

“…what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them? ⁵ You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor” (Ps 8:4-5).

Psalm 8 is pure praise without any request. Like other hymns from the Bible it expresses the religious moment when the indivudual stands before the deity and appreciates the greatness and power of the divine, especially as reflected in creation (like Psalm 19, 33, 104 and 145) which shows God’s power over the entire world. It is an unsurpassed example of what a hymn should be–celebrating the glory and grace of God, rehersing who He is and what He has done, relating us and our world to Him–all with a masterly economy of words, and in a spirit of mingled joy and awe.

After 5 consecutive psalms (Psalms 3-7) agonizing through the dark valleys of lament and pleas for deliverance comes a joyful melody of breathtaking beauty and awesome delight in Psalm 8, which is the first experience of joyful praise and adoration in the Psalms. But this brief but brilliant chorus of praise returns again in the following psalms to the darkness of pain and the anguish of brokenness. But in Psalm 8, if just for a moment, darkness and suffering are driven away by the commanding vision of the sovereign God of the created universe and his unfathomable care for humanity.

• Briefly, what is Psalm 1 about (Ps 1:2)? What is Psalm 2 about (Ps 2:2-3, 6, 11)? [Psalms 1-2 are the introduction to all 150 psalms.] How is Psalm 8 different from Psalms 3-7 (Ps 3:1; 4:1; 5:2; 6:3; 7:1)?

1. Do you declare God’s name as majestic in your daily life (Ps 8:1a, 9)? How (Ps 8:1b; 19:1; Phil 2:12b; Ac 20:19)? What is the difference between the 2 words translated “LORD, Lord” [Yahweh (Exo 3:14), Adonai]?
2. Do you see the world with childlike praise, innocence, awe and wonder (Ps 8:2; Mt 21:15-16; 19:14; Lk 19:37-40)? Through whom does God reveal his power (1 Cor 1:27-29)? How does God turn the tables on his enemies (2 Cor 12:9-10)? Do you use praise as a form of spiritual warfare to overcome challenges?
3. Have you observed the night sky to consider and contemplate the vastness of creation (Ps 8:3)? What can this teach you (Rom 1:20)?
4. What is your self-worth based on (Ps 8:4; Mt 6:26, 28-30)? Why would God the Creator care about humanity/you (Isa 9:6; Mt 6:9; Lk 11:2)? Are you crowned “with glory and honor” (Ps 8:5)? What makes you special (Gen 1:26a, 27)? According to the author of Hebrews what does Ps 8:4-5 point to (Heb 2:6-9)? How (Jn 1:14)?
5. What authority and responsibilities has God given you (Ps 8:6-8; Gen 1:28)? How can you be a responsible caretaker of creation (Gen 2:15)? Do you see your unique role in God’s grand design? What is the tension between human insignificance (Ps 8:3-4) and human importance (Ps 8:5-6)?
6. How does Ps 8:9 bring Psalm 8 full circle? Why is it important to begin and end with praise?

Outline [Various titles: Crown of Creation. The God of the Insignificant. The Majesty of God and the Dignity of Humanity. The Glory of the Creator and of Humankind. The Glory of God in Creation. How majestic is your name. The power of the powerless. Thus far and no further. Majesty in meekness.]

1. Divine Majesty Proclaimed (Ps 8:1)

• God’s name is majestic
• His glory transcends the heavens
• Praise comes from unexpected sources (children and infants)

2. Creation as a Testimony to God’s Power (Ps 8:2-3)

• God’s strength revealed through creation
• Silencing enemies through the praise of the weak
• The vastness of the cosmos demonstrates God’s creative power

3. Humanity’s Unique Position in Creation (Ps 8:4-8))

• The incredible worth God places on humanity
• Humans crowned with glory and honor
• Humanity’s delegated authority over creation

4. Concluding Praise (Ps 8:9). Returning to the opening declaration. Emphasizing the majesty of God’s name

Practical Application

1. Cultivate a sense of wonder about God’s creation
2. Recognize your unique value in God’s eyes
3. Exercise responsible stewardship of the resources entrusted to you
4. Develop a lifestyle of praise

THE RIGHT VIEW OF AFFLICTIONS
1 Thessalonians 3:1-13
Key Verse: 3:
“3…that no one be moved by these afflictions. For you yourselves know that we are destined for this.”

Look at verses 1-2. “Therefore when we could bear it no longer, we were willing to be left behind at Athens alone, 2 and we sent Timothy, our brother and God’s coworker[a] in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you in your faith.” As we may remember from chapters 1 and 2, Paul had left Thessalonica because of persecutions and went down south to Athens. Some months had already passed by since Paul was forced to leave Thessalonica due to terrible persecutions. But he was very much concerned about their spiritual welfare that he decided to send Timothy to visit them. Remember that Timothy, and Silas had gone with him on his various missionary journeys. Paul was willing to send his beloved and trusted spiritual son in the Lord, Timothy, in his place. He said he would be “alone” because Silas was probably visiting other churches himself. It’s always difficult for God’s servant to be alone, but he or she can endure it when they know it is a for a greater good. If you remember at the IIT Thanksgiving service, Maria mentioned about Sarah Lomahan Guiterrez who left her family and comfortable home in Chicago to serve the poor people of Zambia for two years. It was difficult for her family to send her away for two years, but they knew that Sarah had a clear mission and purpose to help the people there. While there she helped build a well for the village so that they could get clean water and helped at the local school. [Pic 1 picture of Sarah, hut, MJ]
Several years ago, during covid, Maria and I were separated for seven months because she came to help our daughter with our grandchild. At that time, we expected to be separated for only a few weeks, but when the covid pandemic hit there was a travel ban. Maria could not leave Chicago, while I stayed in Ukraine. It was a little difficult for me to be alone, but I could endure it knowing that she was caring for our family. She was also serving here at WestLoop ministry during those seven months. Some of our precious Podil UBF coworkers were forced to be separated from their families because of the war. Katya had to be separated from her husband Anton. [Pic 2] Ira had to be separated from her father and uncle. [Pic 3] Anya also from her father. [Pic 4] Some of our young church families had to leave their parents and loved ones to go to other countries as war refugees. [Pic 5 families in Poland] Our church does our best to be caring, supportive, and prayerful for them. Whenever possible and God provides the time and funds, we also go visit them because it encourages them greatly to have visitors. The other day, one of our sisters Katya, who is living as a war refugee in Cambridge, England, told Maria that she will be getting married next year. Maria is already planning to attend her wedding in April. You may remember her because she was with us here at WestLoop and was even baptized by our church. [Pic 6] Praise God who uses us because we are willing to send our loved ones and coworkers to do God’s work, even in other parts of the world! Amen.
Look at verse 2 again. “2…and we sent Timothy, our brother and God’s coworker[a] in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you in your faith.” Interesting here that Paul called Timothy God’s coworker. At that time, the meaning of worker meant a lowly and humble worker—like a table waiter. Though he was a lowly servant, he was actually working with God to fulfill God’s will in Thessalonica. God qualifies his servants not necessarily because of their great human abilities and high education, but due to their humbleness of heart. Thus, humble Timothy was called God’s servant or coworker. How wonderful the Christian life is when we know that we are being used by God as his servants to carry out God’s world salvation work. Young Timothy was the right person to send because he had learned from the Apostle Paul to put the interest of others over his own. Philippians 2:20 reads, “19 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I too may be cheered by news of you. 20 For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare.” Timothy had a clear purpose and mission to establish and exhort the faith of the Thessalonians. The order of helping them spiritually was important. They first needed to be established in God’s word. Then they could be encouraged to stay the course. It’s the same when a ship or plane goes for a long trip, they must have a clear map and direction first. Then they can get safely to their destinations. We have to remember that they had only become believers a few months earlier. They were like baby believers who needed someone to give them spiritual milk, which is the word of God. Especially, they needed spiritual advice in regards to reacting appropriately to the afflictions they were facing.
Look at verses 3-4. “3…that no one be moved by these afflictions. For you yourselves know that we are destined for this. 4 For when we were with you, we kept telling you beforehand that we were to suffer affliction, just as it has come to pass, and just as you know.” Though Paul didn’t describe in detail what these afflictions were, the Thessalonian believers knew what he was apparently writing about. Actually, in our last message I briefly talked about how they were probably persecuted by their own countrymen because they no longer worshiped the local gods, but worshiped the one and true living God. From Paul we learn a spiritual truth—all believers are destined for afflictions. Afflictions can come from many sources like persecution, health issues, financial problems, emotional problems, relational problems, family issues, church problems, etc. How we face these challenging situations determine what kind of faith we have, or lack of faith, at that moment. Once, Jesus taught about the Parable of the four soils. Jesus said in Matthew 13:20-21, “20 As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, 21 yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away.” Here Jesus made it clear that tribulations can be used to test our faith and make it stronger. But if we fall away because of tribulations or persecutions, it means we didn’t have real faith in the first place. Being a Christian doesn’t mean just living on an emotional high, but on a solid foundation based on the word of God, which cannot be shaken. Like a house built on the foundation of rock, not sand. Though they were only young believers, the Thessalonians were going through their own afflictions to strengthen and solidify their faith in the gospel of Jesus.
The word “destined” in verse 3, can also be translated to “appointed.” We all know about appointments. We have all had to make a doctor’s appointment or appointment to get the car fix or dentist appointment or hair cut appointment for us or our dogs. All these things are inevitable in our human life to improve or get better in some areas of our lives. Appointments with affliction are also to help us spiritually improve and trust in God even more than before. An example of this appointed affliction was the life of Job. They were terrible afflictions that no one, without faith in God, could bear. He lost his home, his children, his wealth, his health, his dignity, and everything he had in a very short time. His wife looked at him with pity and told him to curse God for putting him and his family through all these trials. But he said in Job 2:10, “10 But he said to her, ‘You speak as one of the foolish women would speak. Shall we receive good from God, and shall we not receive evil?’ In all this Job did not sin with his lips.” In the end, Job was blessed by God to be an example of a man of faith, who would not curse God in the midst of terrible trials. Even Jesus, the Son of God, had gone through many kinds of trials and afflictions in order to perfect his obedience to God’s will. Hebrews 2:10 reads, “10 For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering.” Now if Jesus had to go through afflictions to perfect his obedience to God, how much more should we also. Jesus himself had told his disciples and us that we will have trials and afflictions in the world. But we should not be shaken but put our faith in Jesus because he overcame the world. John 16:33 reads, “33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” Jesus taught emphatically that we will have tribulations. There is no way around it. Of course, we should use common sense not to bring trials upon ourselves because of our own sins or foolishness. But when we do face tribulations not because of our own doing, we can look up to Jesus, who overcame the world. It gives us hope to overcome the tribulations, which we face when we put our hope in him.
We also learn from these verses that we go through afflictions not necessarily because God is angry with us. God wants the best for us rather than for our human desire to have an easy Christian life. I like Pastor David Gudzik who said, “The symbol of Christianity is the cross, not a soft pillow.” [Pic 7] But in our times, many prosperity gospel preachers would want young Christians to believe that the Christian life is all about success, happiness, and trouble-free. We get the wrong impressions that everything will go well and fine for believers, without any bumps in the road. But this is not what the gospels teach us. Luke wrote in Acts 14:21-22, “After they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying, ‘Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.’” We are on a pilgrimage from this world to our heavenly home, but the road home is full of challenges and difficulties that all Christians must overcome by faith.
As for my last example of afflictions, I would like to talk about Hutan Tash, who lives in London. She was an ex-Muslim and converted to Christianity. She came to know the truth by hearing the gospel and reading the Bible. She became zealous for Jesus, whom she accepted as the Lord and Savior of her life. But because she converted from Islam to Christianity, she received so much death threats that she had to move her residency 50 times. She was also punched and even stabbed by Muslims who hated her for her conversion and propagating her new faith in public. But she was not shaken or moved by all the afflictions that she has been receiving. In fact, she was more emboldened to speak the gospel, even in front of mosques. [Pic 8] Even though she continues to receive death threats she said she would never stop preaching the gospel because Jesus is her Lord and the true Savior of the world. We need to continue to pray for her and others who boldly preach the gospel in spite of terrible persecutions for their faith. Amen. Paul knew that the Thessalonian believers were going through a spiritual battle because the devil wanted to ship-wreck their faith.
Look at verse 5. “5 For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain.” Paul knew that when we become believers, we have also entered the spiritual world, where there is a spiritual battle. Once we have accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior, our lives will not become a bed of roses and a bright shiny day every day. Rather, we are engaged in a spiritual battle, where our strong enemy the devil, is always looking for ways to tempt us, misguide us, and lead us away from God. In the Bible, we find many ways the devil tried to hinder God’s servants or God’s work to continue. The devil has been working hard from the beginning of creation when he tempted Adam and Eve to disobey God’s word. Even among Jesus’ disciples, the devil prompted Judas Iscariot to betray Jesus to his enemies. As we know, Paul always considered his work for the gospel not to be in vain. Here he is praying that the intense labor he had served the church in Thessalonica would not be wiped away because of the devil’s work. This is why he earnestly prayed for them to overcome the devil’s temptations. This is why he was ecstatic to hear the good news about their steadfast faith in the Lord from Timothy’s journey report.
Look at verses 6-8. “6 But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and has brought us the good news of your faith and love and reported that you always remember us kindly and long to see us, as we long to see you— 7 for this reason, brothers,[b] in all our distress and affliction we have been comforted about you through your faith. 8 For now we live, if you are standing fast in the Lord.” Paul had sent Timothy from Athens, then he went to Corinth and served the church there. But the Corinthian church was quite different than the Thessalonian church. If you have ever read 1st and 2nd Corinthians then you would know the hardships Paul was going through helping this difficult church. He had to rebuke and exhort them on many different spiritual topics. The church members there were doing things that would even put unbelievers to shame. Perhaps this is why he said he verse 7 that he was discouraged and distressed because of all the difficulties he had to deal with in the Corinthian church. But when he heard the good news from Timothy about the Thessalonian church he was rejuvenated, delighted, and comforted. He also felt spiritually alive that his labor for the Lord in Thessalonica was not in vain. Here from Paul, we also learn a spiritual secret in not remaining in a state of discouragement in God’s work. Sometimes as God’s servants we are discouraged when we work hard in one place but produce little or no fruit. Instead of becoming distressed and discouraged, we ought to pray and find where the Holy Spirit is working. It may take some work, much prayer, and opening our spiritual eyes. But when we take the time and effort, then we can be like the Apostle Paul and be rejuvenated and spiritually alive participating in God’s salvation work. Since Maria and I live at the Bible house, we have witnessed God’s work at UIC ministry and many students are coming and going. I also see older servants of God from our main center coming to catch the blessing of participating in God’s work. They still want to share in the blessing of preaching the gospel and teaching the Bible to young college students. I believe they do so because they feel rejuvenated and comforted to see young people positively responding to the gospel. When we wholeheartedly and earnestly pray to serve the gospel and God’s work then we can see where God is working with a thankful heart.
Look at verses 9-10. “9 For what thanksgiving can we return to God for you, for all the joy that we feel for your sake before our God, 10 as we pray most earnestly night and day that we may see you face to face and supply what is lacking in your faith.” In chapters 1 and 2, we saw how Paul was thankful for the faith, hope, and love of the Thessalonian believers. In these verses, we see from Paul that their spiritual growth was only possible because of God’s work in them. So, Paul is thankful to God for his mighty work in them. As God’s servants, we should always remember that God is the source of blessings and the source of our joy. In the church, people will come and go, because people are changeable and have their own agendas. So, they cannot be our source of joy. Our source of joy is God, who is working in us, in others, and in the world. And we must earnestly pray to God to continue his sanctifying work in us, in others, and in the world because we have not yet been perfected. All believers, including us, are lacking something in our faith. We can all grow more zealous for God’s work. We can all grow more in our knowledge of God’s grace and mercy. We can all grow more in our compassion and love for one another, and love the lost people of the world. We can grow more in serving others in the Lord. This is the beauty of growing more and more in our faith in God. Even though we have limitations to our physical and mental capacities, we can still grow in our faith and grow more mature spiritually. Actually, we will only be perfected in our faith when we get to heaven. But a growing faith is the faith that is going in the right direction. Probably, most of us, if not all, have come across people who seemed to be good Christians, but later we hear that they have fallen away from the faith. People can lose faith in God when they stop growing in faith and not working on the areas in their life of faith that are lacking. However, when we honestly look at ourselves and see that there are areas in our life of faith that is lacking, then we can pray and strive to grow in those areas by God’s help. That is why we need to always pray for ourselves and pray for others to grow in faith. This is why in the last three verses of this chapter; Paul turns to God and begins to pray for the flock of God in Thessalonica. These verses are also known as wish prayers because they are the wishes, in the form of prayers, Paul would have God do for them.
Look at verses 11-13. “11 Now may our God and Father himself, and our Lord Jesus, direct our way to you, 12 and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you, 13 so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.” In verse 11, we again see Paul’s faith in the deity of Jesus, putting him in equal par with God the Father. Paul also prayed that God would provide a way for him to go back and visit them. Some scholars say he was able to go back, but it was several years later. But in God’s time, his prayer was answered. In verse 12, we see that Paul prayed for their love to “increase and abound in love for one another and for all.” What does he mean here? As you know, in 1 Corinthians 13, Paul wrote about the great triad of the Christian faith, “hope, faith, and love.” And he wrote that among these, love is the greatest. We can’t always measure, when we see people, how much faith or hope they have. But we can see by their actions and listening to their words if they really have the love of God. That is why Jesus said in John 13:35, “35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Jesus gave a gaugeable and quantifiable measurement for all people to use to see whether Christians are really his disciples or not. Do they really love one another? If in the church there is in-fighting, political intrigue, power struggle, jealousy, sexual perversions, then it will turn many people away. But when they see loving people, who have genuine concern for others, they are more likely to stay and even become Christians themselves because they see that Jesus presence is among them. So, Paul prayed for the young believers in Thessalonica, not only should they grow in hope and faith, but more than that grow in love for one another. It reminded me of Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel who is known to have said, “The opposite of love is not hate; it’s indifference.” [Pic 8] Instead of growing in indifference, we must increase and abound love.
Look at verse 13 again. “13 so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.” As in the end of chapters 1 and 2, Paul again ends in verse 13 writing about Jesus’ return. In light of Jesus’ return, we must listen to Paul’s prayer that our hearts are to be blameless and to grow “in holiness before our God and Father.” We want to live holy lives in the world, but we are constantly being bombarded by the devil, called the tempter, moment by moment. But from Apostle Paul, we learn that our focus should not be on the devil, but on Jesus, who will come again in power and glory to take all his saints, including us, back with him to the kingdom of God.
In this passage, we see a kind of spiritual dichotomy—on the one hand, we will face afflictions and suffering, on the other hand, in Jesus our love for God and for one another will abound more and more. Through afflictions we will even become more sympathetic and concerned about others who are going through similar sufferings. For example, sometimes it’s difficult for healthy and strong people to understand weak and sick people. But when they themselves get sick or stricken with an affliction they can sympathize with those suffering. We have temporary afflictions in this world because of our faith in Jesus, but because of our faith in Jesus we will receive eternal life when Jesus returns with all his saints. If you do the spiritual math, our temporary afflictions, and sufferings in this world, though painful, is miniscule or even immeasurable compared to the eternal joy and victory we will have with Jesus our Lord and Savior. Receiving afflictions from God is like receiving an immunization shot. The prick of the needle hurts a little, but it will save us from more pain and distress in the future. Therefore, it’s better to have the right view of afflictions and put our trust and faith in God. Amen. I thank God for giving me a better view of afflictions in my own life. Even though physically and mentally I am fine, Maria and I have some pain in our hearts because of some afflictions in our family, specifically in our children. But I learn in this passage that we should not allow these afflictions to discourage us. Instead, we ought to pray more for them, be concerned and helpful in every way, and trust God even more, especially in his promises like Acts 16:31, “And they said, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.’” God also promised believers in Psalm 103:17-18, “But the steadfast love of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him, and his righteousness to children’s children, to those who keep his covenant and remember to do his commandments.” God’s words are always comforting and encouraging to us in our times of afflictions. Amen.

Footnotes
a. 1 Thessalonians 3:2 Some manuscripts servant
b. 1 Thessalonians 3:7 Or brothers and sisters

1 Thessalonians 3 1-13

Questions:

1.Read 1 Thess. 3:1-2. What was aching in Paul’s heart when he thought about the Thessalonian believers? How did he describe Timothy, the man he sent to check up on them? (Phil. 2:19-20) Why did Paul believe it was necessary to establish and exhort their faith?

2. Read 1 Thess. 3:3-5. Why did Paul mean that believers are destined for afflictions? Why is important for young believers to know ahead of time of afflictions? (Heb. 2:10; Job 2:10; John 16:33) How do afflictions show what kind of believers we are? (Mt. 13:20-21)

3. Read 1 Thess. 3:6-8. What was Timothy’s report about the Thessalonian must have been like? How did Timothy’s report comfort Paul, especially hear this news while he was ministering in Corinth? Why do you think the believers in Thessalonica had mutual love and respect for Paul?

4. Read 1 Thess. 3:9-10. Why was Paul’s so joyful, not just for himself but for the Thessalonians? What do you think may have been lacking in Thessalonians’ faith? What are some aspects of your faith or in the faith of believers in our time do you think are lacking and can be strengthened?

5. Read 1 Thess. 3:11-13. What was Paul’s prayer for the Thessalonians? What does it mean that he prayed for their love to abound? How can we live in holiness before God? What do we learn from him about the gravity and importance of intercessory prayers for our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ? (1 Samuel 12:23; James 5:16)

1 Thessalonians 3:1-13
Therefore when we could bear it no longer, we were willing to be left behind at Athens alone, 2 and we sent Timothy, our brother and God’s coworker[a] in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you in your faith, 3 that no one be moved by these afflictions. For you yourselves know that we are destined for this. 4 For when we were with you, we kept telling you beforehand that we were to suffer affliction, just as it has come to pass, and just as you know. 5 For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain.
6 But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and has brought us the good news of your faith and love and reported that you always remember us kindly and long to see us, as we long to see you— 7 for this reason, brothers,[b] in all our distress and affliction we have been comforted about you through your faith. 8 For now we live, if you are standing fast in the Lord. 9 For what thanksgiving can we return to God for you, for all the joy that we feel for your sake before our God, 10 as we pray most earnestly night and day that we may see you face to face and supply what is lacking in your faith.
11 Now may our God and Father himself, and our Lord Jesus, direct our way to you, 12 and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you, 13 so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.
Footnotes
a. 1 Thessalonians 3:2 Some manuscripts servant
b. 1 Thessalonians 3:7 Or brothers and sisters

Video (12/1/24): WORDS-Poisonous Delicacies. Powerpoint: Psalm 140-141-WORDS-poison-delicacy. Prayer: Psalm 140:1-8, 12-13.

POISONOUS DELICACIES (Psalm 140-141). Poisonous, malicious, slanderous words used to destroy others: “Rescue me, Lord, from evildoers; protect me from the violent, ² who devise evil plans in their hearts and stir up war every day. ³ They make their tongues as sharp as a serpent’s; the poison of vipers is on their lips” (Ps 140:1-3).

Guard my words and my heart: “Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips. Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil so that I take part in wicked deeds along with those who are evildoers; do not let me eat their delicacies” (Ps 141:3-4).

Malicious intrigue is the single theme that dominates Psalm 140, as it has dominated many others, especially those of David. The N.T. treats the Psalms as a major witness to people’s depravity as most of Romans 3:10–18 is from the Psalms, largely because it exposes sheer malice in us. It is a poison which can arise in us not only without provocation (Ps 35:19; 69:4), but even in the face of generosity and love (Ps 35:12-16; 55:12-14).

False accusations. Psalm 140 is an individual lament, with appeals to God to listen and rescue (Ps 140:1, 4, 8). He complains about the wicked who intend to harm him (Ps 140:2-3, 5) with imprecation (Ps 140:9-11) and confidence (Ps 140:6-7, 12-13). His distress appears to be because of false accusations in a court of low (Ps 140:12-13), which explains the threatening speech of evildoers (Ps 140:3). The use of war imagery (Ps 140:2, 7) could be taken metaphorically. Thus, the enemy attacks and accuses the psalmist by making false accusations against him in court.

Using the legal system to take advantage of the weak. The story of Naboth’s vineyard (1 Kings 21) illustrates the vulnerability of an ordinary Israelite to powerful people (King Ahab and Queen Jezebel) with resources who pervert the legal system to get their way at the cost of an ordinary person’s life.

You are my God, my strong deliverer (Ps 140:6-7) [Poison. Malice. Slander. The tongue of vipers. Justice for the poor. Crafty foes, hidden snares. The cry and confidence of a slandered soul. Deliver me from violent men.]

1. Poisonous words (Ps 140:1-5).
2. Divine deliverance (Ps 140:6-11).
3. Confident certainty (Ps 140:12-13).

Psalm 141 is a prayer against insincerity and compromise, and a plea for survival under savage attacks. This could be the days when David became persona non grata at the court of Saul. It would be natural for the whole court, including the judiciary, to side with the king. David ponders throughout the psalm how to act and react while the stress lasts (Ps 141:1-2), how to respond (Ps 141:3-4), and where his safety rests in the meantime (Ps 141:8-10).

My eyes are fixed on you (Ps 141:8) [No compromise. Provocation. Help me stay on the right path. Incessant threat, ceaseless safety. Speaking and listening. My prayer like incense. Christ as the incense of prayer.] Ps 141:2; Rev 5:8; Jas 5:16. Ps 141:3; Jas 3:7-10. Ps 141:4; Mt 6:13. Ps 141:8; 1 Sam 26:19.

1. Passionate prayer (Ps 141:1-2).
2. Practical prayer (Ps 141:6-11).
3. Pointed prayer (Ps 141:12-13). Focused faith.

4 spiritual lessons on how our prayers should be like incense (John Owen) (Ps 141:2):

1. The incense needs to be crushed. Jesus was crushed (Lk 22:44).
2. The incense needs fire. Jesus brought fire on the earth (Lk 12:49).
3. The incense ascended to heaven (Col 3:1-2). Jesus ascended into the heavenly places to intercede for us (Ac 1:9).
4. The incense is a pleasing aroma.  Jesus’ prayer was a pleasing aroma (Eph 5:2).

** How important is your tongue?

2 Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.

5 …the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 

6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.

7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, 8 but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. (James 3:2, 5-6, 7-8)

“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit” (Proverbs 18:21).

3 guidelines about your words: 1. Some words are hurtful. 2. Other words are helpful. 3. All words are consequential. [On overage a person opens his mouth 700x to speak, using between 7K-20K words. ]

I. Hurtful speech. 3 types: 1. Sharp ‘poisonous’ words (Ps 140:3; Prov 12:18, 6, 13, 22)*. 2. Spiteful / evil / troublesome words (Ps 140:9). Words deleted from “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946): jerk, dang, God, lousy, impotent, garlic–eaters. These words were censored from the original script because they were deemed unacceptable at that time for movie audiences. 3. Slanderous words (Ps 140:11; Prov 18:8). 5 questions to ask a gossiper: 1. Why are you telling me this? 2. Who did you hear it from. 3. Have you gone directly to the person. 3. Have you personally verified all the facts. 5. Can I quote you on this with your permission. [*How long a person can live after being bitten by a venomous snake depends on how quickly they receive medical care: Ideally within 30 min of being bitten–known as the “golden hour. In the US, the risk of dying from a venomous snakebite is low because of the availability of high-quality medical care and antivenin Rx. <1 in 37,500 people are bitten by venomous snakes each year, and only 1 in 50 million people die from snakebite.]

II. Helpful words (Col 4:6): 1. Real prayer–pray honestly (Ps 140:1-5), even imprecatory prayers (Ps 140:9-11). An honest prayer is better than dishonest piety. Also, praise (Ps 140:13; 141:2; Eph 5:19-20). Praise is the highest use of the tongue. 2. Regular petition (Ps 141:3-4). It takes 2 years to learn how to talk, and the rest of his life to keep his mouth shut. Speaking without thinking is like shooting without aiming. Jas 3:8. THINK: Is it true, helpful, inspiring, necessary, kind? 3. Righteous rebuke (Ps 141:5; Pr 27:5-6). Your words can either be a BALM or a BOMB. It can either heal or hurt.

III. All words are consequential (Ps 140:2; Lk 6:45). Your words are an outward gaze of what is going on inside of you. One who repeatedly says “damn” and “hell” may simply be describing his condition and his destination. Whatever is inside you will eventually come out. A man reaps what he sows. Garbage in. Garbage out. Philippians 4:8.

While browsing I learned 2 new words–Italian slang words: stunards and chooches. “Stunad“ is an Italian American slang term that means “stupid” or “dimwit.” “Chooch“ is an Italian slang term that means “dummy”, “idiot”, “jackass”, or “moron.”

It’s a grace to be disgraced because of Christ. It’s an honor to be dishonored because of Him.

How does Psalm 140, 141 point to Christ?

* “…the poison of vipers is on their lips” (140:3).

1. Jesus faced poisonous lies and dies the most humiliating, shameful, excruciating execution.
2. When facing deadly lies, Jesus trusted God.“Father, into your hands I commit my spirit” (Lk 23:46; Ps 31:5).
3. Jesus is the ultimate word that sustains the weary.

“The Sovereign LORD has given me a well-instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed” (Isa 50:4).

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Mt 11:28-29).

• “Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; rebuke the wise and they will love you” (Prov 9:8).
• “Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses” (Prov 27:6).
• “Let God be true, and every human being a liar” (Rom 3:4).

One of Rudyard Kipling’s most famous quotations is from a speech made to the Royal College of Surgeons in London in 1923. He compares words to drugs to describe the persuasive effect words can have on people. The next sentence says, “Not only do words infect, egotize, narcotize, and paralyze, but they enter into and colour the minutest cells of the brain. . . .” He describes the ability of a person’s words to change how another person thinks and feels, to influence that person to do or feel things that are not normal for that person — just as drugs would. Perhaps Kipling was thinking of Europe during the 1920s with the rise of the Nazi party in Germany to threaten the security of all of Europe. Hitler used his ability to persuade people with his words to take control of the Nazi party in 1921, and his book Mein Kampf would become one of the most influential documents in the 20th century, serving as the cornerstone of Nazism and German socialism.

Justice: “Awake, my God; decree justice” (Ps 7:6b). “Wake up, my God, and bring justice!” (NLT) “Wake up for my sake and execute the judgment you have decreed for them!” (NET)

Prayer and praise. Psalm 7 is about a man who has been falsely accused based on lies said about him (Ps 7:2-4). It begins with a supplication for help from the man pursued by those bent on his destruction (Ps 7:1), and concludes by celebrating God with thanksgiving (Ps 7:17). The overall movement is the familiar theme that prayer resolves crises, and issues in praise and thanksgiving for their solution.

Questions [O God, my Righteous Judge. The Judge is on your side. A cry for justice. Finding refuge in God’s justice. God battles against evil people. God’s righteous judgment. Confidence in God’s deliverance. The blessing of a good conscience. A conscience without offence]:

• Who might “Cush, a Benjamite” [Title] be who lied and slandered him (2 Sam 16:5-6, 7-8)? What did David do in response (2 Sam 16:9, 10-12)?

1. Have you ever desperately prayed to God alone to save and deliver you (Ps 7:1) from a desperate situation (Ps 7:2)? Do you seek secondary means to rescue yourself, just in case God does not?
2. What is David proclaiming and swearing to God with his repeated use of “if” in Ps 7:3-4? Are you so confident about your own innocence as he is (Ps 7:3-5)? Is David saying he is sinless (Ps 51:3-4)? [Eccl 7:20; Prov 20:9; Rom 3:10]
   • How conscientiously do you strive to keep your conscience clear and to live honorably (Ac 24:16; Heb 13:18; 1 Pet 3:16; 2 Cor 4:2)?
3. Do you ever pray for God on high to express his anger against those who perpetrate injustice (Ps 7:6, 9)? How might God’s anger differ from ours (Eph 4:26)? Was David able to take matters into his own hands (1 Sam 24:10-11, 13)? Should you avenge yourself (Rom 12:19)?
   • Ps 7:8a can also be translated “Pass judgment on me.”  Do you pray similarly? Should you? Who do we judge (Mt 7:1-2)? How confident are you about your own righteousness and integrity (Ps 7:8)?
   • What is his prayer for the people of God (Ps 7:7, 9a)?
   • Are you comfortable with God probing your mind [heart] and heart [kidneys, feelings] (Ps 7:9b; 137:23-24)?
4. Do you live as though God is your shield (Ps 7:10)? That God is a righteous judge (Ps 7:11)? What if you don’t?
5. What happens if you disregard God (Ps 7:12-13, 14-16; Gal 6:7-8)?
6. What does the psalmist conclusion of the psalm (Ps 7:17) in the midst of experiencing injustice and false accusations teach you?

Video (Sun 11/24/24): AFFLICTED (Psalm 102).

Afflicted: A prayer of an afflicted [lowly/downcast] person who has grown weak [faint] and pours out a lament [plea] before the Lord. “Hear my prayer, Lord; let my cry for help come to you. Do not hide your face from me when I am in distress. Turn your ear to me; when I call, answer me quickly” (Ps 102:1-2).

Devastated/Distressed: “Do not hide your face from me when I am in distress.” “…because of your great wrath, for you have taken me up and thrown me aside.” “In the course of my life he broke my strength; he cut short my days. So I said: “Do not take me away, my God, in the midst of my days…” (Ps 102:2, 10, 23-24a). [Psalm 102 is classified as 1 of the 7 penitential psalms: 6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, 143.]

Overview. The 5 books of the Psalms.

1. Book I (1-41): Confrontation. Ps 22:1; 23:1.
2. Book II (42-72/31): Communication. Ps 51:1-4.
3. Book III (73-89/17): Catastrophe / Devastation. Ps 88:18; 84:5.
4. Book IV (90-106/17): Consecration / Maturation. Ps 93:1; 97:1; 99:1.
5. Book V (107-150/44): Consummation. Ps 146:1; 147:1; 148:1; 149:1; 150:1-6.

Book 4: “The Lord reigns” (Ps 93:1; 97:1; 99:1).

• Psalm 90:  ETERNITY. “…from everlasting to everlasting you are God” (Ps 90:2). 4/7/24.
• Psalm 91: SAFETY. “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty” (Ps 92:1). 8/18/24.
• Psalm 92: PRAISE. “It is good to praise the Lord” (Ps 92:1).
• Psalm 93:  KING. “Your throne was established…from all eternity” (Ps 93:2). 9/4/24.
• Psalm 94:  JUDGE. “Rise up, Judge of the earth: (Ps 94:2). 9/4/24.
• Psalm 95: WORSHIP/Listen. “Today, if only you would hear his voice”  (Ps 95:7). 9/15/24.
• Psalm 96: WORTHY. “For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise” (Ps 96:3). 9/22/24.
• Psalm 97: FORMIDABLE. “you are exalted far above all gods” (Ps 97:9). 10/13/24.
• Psalm 98: RULER. “He will judge the world in righteousness” (Ps 98:9). 10/24/24.
• Psalm 99: HOLINESS. “God is holy” (Ps 99:3, 5, 9). 10/20/24.
• Psalm 100: KNOWLEDGE. Gratitude. “Know that the Lord is God” (Ps 100:3). 10/20/24.
• Psalm 101: CONDUCT. “I will be careful to lead a blameless life—when will you come to me? I will conduct the affairs of my house with a blameless heart” (Ps 101:2). 11/3/24.
• Psalm 102: AFFLICTED. A prayer of an afflicted person who has grown weak and pours out a lament before the Lord. “Hear my prayer, Lord; let my cry for help come to you. Do not hide your face from me when I am in distress. Turn your ear to me; when I call, answer me quickly” (Ps 102:1-2). 11/17/24.
• Psalm 103: BENEFITS. “Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits” (Ps 103:1-2). 4/28/24.
• Psalm 104: CREATION. “How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures” (Ps 104:24).
• Psalm 105: COVENANT. “He remembers his covenant forever, the promise he made, for a thousand generations” (Ps 105:8).
• Psalm 106: FAILURE. “We have sinned, even as our ancestors did; we have done wrong and acted wickedly” (Ps 106:6).

Prayer: Psalm 150: The Where, Why, How and Who of praising God. (Various titles: My days and God’s years. I have hope for Zion, but is there hope for me? I am in distress. Request refused; prayer answered. Messiah: hesitations [anguish, agonies] (Ps 102:3-11) and assurances (Ps 102:25-27; Heb 1:10-12). Afflicted but full of trust. You remain, but I… Comfort for the afflicted. A prayer of one afflicted. Feeling alone. When smoke prays. Lament and the Christian life.)

Outline:

1. HELP (Ps 101:1-2). Desperate plea to God.
2. I’m suffering (Ps 101:3-7, 8-11)…physically (Ps 101:3-7)/emotionally (Ps 101:8-11).
3. But God still rules (Ps 101:12-17)…and will restore Zion. So…
4. There‘s hope  (Ps 101:18-22)…for Future Generations. Yet… Rosaria Butterfield | How Psalm 102 Changed My Mind About Abortion. 
5. I‘m Frail but God is Eternal (Ps 101:23-28).

What should you do in times of distress?

* “Hear my prayer, Lord; let my cry for help come to you” (1).

1. Cry out to God in prayer.

* “In my distress I groan aloud …” (5).

2. Express your real and raw emotions.

* “But you, Lord, sit enthroned forever” (12).

3. Always know that God is ruling.

  “But we know that in all things God works…” (Rom 8:28).

  “Work out your salvation with…for it is… (Phil 2:12b-13).

* “In the beginning you laid the foundations of the earth” (25).

4. Always know that God is the Creator. (Jn 1:1-4).

How Psalm 102 points to Christ:

* “My enemies taunt me day after day. They mock and curse me” (Ps 102:8).

1. Jesus suffers mocking and taunting. “The men who were guarding Jesus began mocking and beating him” (Lk 22:63).

* “He will respond to the prayer of the destitute…” (Ps 102:17).

2. Jesus receives the destitute (Mt 11:28-30).

* “you remain the same, and your years will never end” (Ps 102:27).

3. Jesus is the unchanging God (Heb 13:8).

“In the beginning, Lord, you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment. You will roll them up like a robe; like a garment they will be changed. But you remain the same, and your years will never end” (Heb 1:10-12).

Psalm 102 is a lament that moves from personal suffering to hope in God’s eternal nature and faithfulness to Zion. The theme centers on suffering, lament, and the permanence of God’s mercy. The psalmist in deep distress pours out his heart to God, highlighting the transient nature of human life contrasted with God’s eternal nature. It is a personal plea for deliverance, but has elements reflecting the struggles of the people of Israel during a time of national calamity (exile). The psalmist finds hope in God’s unchanging character and His promise to restore Zion, pointing toward a future deliverance.

Thomas Watson said that we must not get distracted by who brings the trial (who is the carrier, the messenger God chose to bring it to us), but look up and see God, who sent it our way. All our trials are hand-stitched for us, and our Father has all the measurements right. 2 Cor 1:9. If we never feel the curse of sin and the law, we will never know the blessing of the gospel of God’s grace.

Application:

1. Honest Lament: Be honest with your raw emotions with God about your pain and suffering (Ps 101:3-11) in prayer and poetry. Be open about your pain, knowing that God listens even in your darkest moments (Ps 103:1-2).
2. Find Hope in God’s Unchanging Nature: When everything around you seems uncertain or fleeting, Psalm 102 reminds you to focus on God’s eternal, unchanging character (Ps 102:12, 26-27). His promises remain true even when we feel overwhelmed.
3. Look Beyond Present Circumstances: Christians are called to have faith in God’s future redemption, both in our personal lives and in the broader sense of His plan for His people (Ps 102:18, 19-20). Trust God’s eternal plan that provides hope for the future.
4. Generational Faith: The psalm looks forward to a time when future generations will praise God for His faithfulness (Ps 102:21-22). Be encouraged to consider how our faith impacts not only our lives but also the generations to come.

Psalm 102, in its lament, shows that while human life is frail and full of sorrow, God’s eternal nature and His promises give us hope for restoration and deliverance.

1. Help (Ps 101:1-2): He begins with a desperate plea for God to hear his prayer and not hide His face.
2. I‘m Suffering (Ps 101:3-11) physically (3-7) and emotionally (8-11):
   • He vividly describes his distress: feeling physically weak, emotionally exhausted, spiritually abandoned.
   • His life seems fleeting, like smoke or a shadow, and his enemies are a constant source of pain.
3. But God still rules (Ps 101:12-17):
   • Despite his suffering, he acknowledges that God reigns forever and will show compassion on Zion (symbolizing Israel’s restoration).
   • The promise of God’s future intervention and care for His people is highlighted.
4. There’s hope for Future Generations  (Ps 101:18-22):
   • The psalmist envisions that future generations will praise God when they witness His restoration of Zion.
   • This section looks forward to the time when all nations will revere the Lord.
5. I‘m Frail but God is Eternal (Ps 101:23-28):
   • He contrasts his own weakness and short life with the eternal, unchanging nature of God.
   • He ends with a declaration of hope that God’s faithfulness will endure for generations, and His promises to His people will stand firm.

AGONY. ANGUISH: “Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am faint; heal me, Lord, for my bones are in agony [terrified /horrified /stricken /vexed]. My soul is in deep anguish [exceedingly terrified /greatly horrified /hard stricken /I am sick at heart]. How long, Lord, how long?” (Ps 6:2-3)

Psalm 6 is a model prayer for those who are suffering. It is a lament that calls on God to help in the midst of trouble. Such a prayer of lament and plea for mercy (Ps 6:1-3) is a prayer for deliverance in a time of distress (Ps 6:1-3, 6-7). It expresses David’s profound sorrow (Ps 6:6-7) and his confidence in God’s compassion (Ps 6:4-5, 8-10). The psalm captures the reality of personal anguish, yet points to a hope in God’s unwavering presence and eventual deliverance. [Psalm 6 has entered the Jewish liturgy as the daily prayer for supplication every weekday morning.] (Prayers and Tears. A Prayer in Deep Anguish. Waiting is Hard. Deep Danger, Great Deliverance. Deliverance from Desperation. The way prayer makes a difference. Do not discipline me. O Lord, deliver my life! A confident answer to an agonized plea.)

Questions:

1. Have you been rebuked and disciplined by God (Ps 6:1; 38:1)? How?
   • Do you feel God’s rebuke and discipline in a particular area of your life? Did or do you deserve it?
   • Was it for any besetting sin (Ps 51:3-4; Num 32:23; 1 Th 5:9; Rom 8:1)? If so, do you hesitate to go to Him because you know or feel that it’s your fault and therefore you deserve it?
   • Does the sin itself feel worse, or the consequences and result of sin feel worse?
   • Was the psalmist asking God to not be rebuked and disciplined?
   • Why does God rebuke and discipline you (Rev 3:19)?
   • What benefit do you receive from God’s rebuke and discipline (Heb 12:5-6, 7, 10, 11)?
2. How did God’s rebuke and discipline affect him (Ps 6:2-3, 6-7; 38:2-4)? How miserable was he?
   • Is being “faint” and bones being “in agony” symbolic, literal or metaphorical (Ps 6:2b)?
   • What does “how long” tell you about his suffering (Ps 6:3; 13:1-2)? Was he complaining? Being honest? Both?
   • Are you truly honest with God and with others about your struggles? Does it comfort and strengthen you?
   • Who else contributed to his trials and troubles (Ps 6:7b, 8a, 10; 3:1)?
   • Have you ever cried out to God with such a desperate agonizing prayer?
   • How do you respond when your physical and emotional strength weakens?
3. What was the basis for his prayer to God (Ps 6:2a, 4)?
   • Did David feel distant from God (Ps 6:4a)?
   • What is “unfailing love” [hesed] (Ps 6:4b)?
   • When you’re suffering do you feel that God doesn’t love you [or may be even disgusted with you]?
   • Why should God answer David’s prayer (Ps 6:5)? Did he believe in eternal consciousness or eternal life [Ps 16:10-11; 17:15; 49:15; 73:23; 2 Tim 1:10]?
   • Has God shown you steadfast love? How? Does such assurance comfort you in times of anguish and agony?
4. How many times did David express his confidence that God hears him (Ps 6:8b-9)?
   • How confident are you that God hears you (Ps 6:8-10)? How can you be sure (Ps 6:4)?
   • In times of seemingly unanswered prayer, do you still trust God’s timing and faithfulness?
   • Does David’s confidence [in spite of his sin] inspire you to draw closer to God?
   • Do your feelings sabotage your faith and confidence in God? How do you overcome your feelings that may deceive you (Jer 17:9; 2 Cor 5:7; Rom 1:17)?
5. How might Psalm 6 point to Jesus?
   1. Ps 6:3; Mt 26:38.
   2. Ps 6:6-7; 22:1; Mt 27:46; Mk 15:34.
   3. Ps 6:8-9; Lk 22:43.

Psalm 6 encourages believers to be honest with God about their struggles, expressing sorrow while anchoring themselves in God’s love and faithfulness. In times of suffering or discouragement, this psalm reminds us to seek God’s mercy, remain hopeful, and trust in His timing for deliverance.

Psalm 6 is a prayer for mercy and healing from God. The overarching theme of Psalms 6 is the plea for God’s mercy and healing. The psalmist is in a state of distress, weakness, and physical affliction, and he cries out to the Lord for help. This verse reflects the universal human experience of suffering and the natural desire for relief and restoration. It also underscores the belief in God’s ability to provide healing and comfort in times of need.

The context of Psalm 6 is important for understanding the depth of the psalmist’s plea. As the heading of the psalm suggests, it is a Psalm of David, and it was likely written during a time of great distress or personal turmoil. This understanding adds depth to the raw emotion and urgency of the psalmist’s words. David is not speaking in abstract terms, but rather from a place of genuine need and desperation. This context makes the plea for mercy and healing in Psalms 6:2 all the more poignant and relatable.

Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future.

If you won’t go with me to heaven, I won’t go with you to hell.

Outline [A confident answer to an agonized plea]:

1. Plea for Mercy (Ps 6:1-3). Prayer for God’s favor. Expressing need for God’s compassion, asking that God does not rebuke him in anger but instead be merciful.
2. Prayer for Deliverance (Ps 6:4-5). Prayer for God’s love. Urgently for God’s rescue, appealing to God’s steadfast love.
3. Description of Suffering (Ps 6:6-7). Need of God’s love. Intense suffering, sorrow, and physical weakness.
4. Confession of Faith and Assurance (Ps 6:8-10). Prayer for God’s favor. Confidence of God’s response. Declares trust in God’s acceptance of his prayer and confidence in God’s justice over his enemies, despite sorrow, agony and anguish.

Do you feel that God is expressing his anger and wrath toward you because of any beseting sin? If so what should you do? If not can you abuse God’s acceptance (Rom 2:4)?

What is David’s attitude towards God in his time of suffering (Ps 6:1-3)?

How do you approach God in times of hardship or correction? Do you respond with humility and repentance?

How does David express his need for God’s mercy and healing (Ps 6:2-3)? In what ways can you openly admit your need for God’s mercy and healing in your life? Is there an area where you can let go of self-reliance and lean more on God’s grace?

Why does David appeal to God’s steadfast love as the reason for his deliverance.

What impact does suffering have on David’s spirit and body (Ps 6:6-7)?

Happy Thanksgiving! The gathering most Americans think of as the first Thanksgiving happened 403 years ago. The year was 1621. But did you know that almost 3,000 years before that, God told the nation of Israel to establish a thanksgiving festival called the Feast of Weeks. Deuteronomy 16:10 “Then celebrate the Festival of Weeks to the Lord your God by giving a freewill offering in proportion to the blessings the Lord your God has given you.” This was the original thanksgiving celebration!

This thanksgiving offering has been practiced by God’s people for thousands of years. Thanksgiving is not just one day in a year. According to the key verse, it is a daily, moment by moment attitude. You could say Thanksgiving is like breathing! In today’s sermon, let’s think about what it means to live practically a life of thanksgiving. First, let’s pray to give thanks in all circumstances. Second, give thanks that God is good and third, give thanks for His salvation through Jesus Christ.

First Give thanks in all circumstances

Since 2020 to the present, we’ve had a series of global storms from covid-19, wars and natural disasters. We’ve had experienced economic insecurities. Millions were out of work due to shutdowns, displaced due to war and natural disasters. Personally, many of us have also experienced all kinds of storms from health issues, lost jobs, passing of loved ones, etc.

It’s extremely hard to be thankful. Many people feel tapped out, shut out, stressed out, worn out, rung out and down and out this Thanksgiving.

An attitude of thanksgiving is a matter of life and death. The opposite of thanksgiving is ingratitude. Ingratitude is the root of a multitude of sins. Romans 1:21-22 says “21 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools”. The result of ingratitude goes downhill in this first chapter of Romans.

Socially, ingratitude as attributed to a host of health issues. Recently, I read about another global epidemic-loneliness. Over 60% of adults in the United States report feeling lonely. About 1/3 of the world has been depressed. In order to combat this plague, some have resorted to AI robots for companionship, countries investing millions to combat loneliness. They even started some government positions such as Minister of loneliness (UK).

We can understand it’s easy to become unthankful and depressed. We can all agree Life is hard. This is why the Bible says much about giving thanks. There are over 400 verses about praise and thanksgiving. God is our maker. He knows what can truly make us happy and content. God tells us that thanksgiving or a heart of gratitude is the healthiest single emotion. Proverbs 17:22 “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Gratitude actually reduces stress, increases happiness, lifts our spirit and a sense of peace. There are actual medical studies that say gratitude is actually good for your physical health. In a recent Harvard health study, they concluded that Gratitude was associated with better cardiovascular health and overall longevity. We cannot force ourselves to be thankful. It is a gift of God. One of the byproducts of thanksgiving is joy. Nehemiah 8:10b: “…for the joy of the Lord is your strength” May God bless each of us to live a life of thanksgiving.

Second, give thanks for He is Good.

Look at 1 Thess 5:18 “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Giving thanks is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus! Many of us ponder, what is God’s will? As a young college student, I asked who will I marry? Where will I live? What should be my major in college? Some questions cannot be answered immediately. This verse states one thing clearly about God’s will. God’s will is that we give thanks whatever life throws at us. At first glance, this verse seems cruel. Why is God telling me to be thankful for all the bad things in my life and the world? Why should I be thankful for cancer, for injustice, for war, for failure, death? The answer is of course not!

God does not expect you to be grateful for the evil, bad and broken things of this world. It doesn’t say, “Give thanks FOR everything” It says, “Give thanks IN all circumstances.” That’s a big difference!

Forrest Gump says, “Life is like a box of chocolate, you don’t know what you are going to get.” Another analogy is life is like a railroad track. It has two rails. One rail has the good, exciting and happy things in life, the other is the bad, sorrowful, and disappointing things in life. Both are parallel to each other. We can agree that our daily life consist of good and bad things in life. It is not always good or not always bad. What is most important is what is running on both rails of the track! Is it the locomotive of thankfulness or ingratitude? People think the ‘good life’ consist of abundant wealth and pleasures. But it is deception. Look at the lives of the rich and famous. The actor and comedian, Jim Carrey is known for saying, “I think everybody should get rich and famous and do everything they ever dreamed of so they can see that it’s not the answer” What can enable us to maintain our joy and peace of mind in the good as well as the bad times? It is the locomotive of thanksgiving!

We can be thankful, when we realize God works for our good. Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Psalms 107:1 says, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”

God in his infinite wisdom can use hardship and pain for our salvation. There are 3 ways God works for our good. God saves you FROM the problem. God saves you THROUGH the problem. God saves you BY the problem. In all things, God works for our good. God saves you FROM the problem, by thwarting a disaster from happening. A month ago, my daughter was in a car accident that totaled her car. It would have been a terrible disaster if her friend didn’t yell “Stop!” We thank God He saved our daughter FROM the problem. God also saves us THROUGH the problem. This means, God walks alongside us as we walk through dark valleys through the problem. Henri Nouwen once said, “When we are crushed like grapes, we cannot think of the wine we will become.” This quote is from his book Can You Drink the Cup? His intent through the trial is to build our character, strengthen our faith and depend on him. He walks and sometimes carries us through the hardship. We feel crushed at times like grapes, but with faith and perseverance, we become sweet wine. The other way, is God save you BY the problem. God allows the problem to save you from a deeper problem. Jesus let his good friend Lazarus die, to solve their problem of the fear of death and to believe that Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25)

In this year has been a trying time for my family. I experienced job loss, the passing of my mother-in-law, our car totaled, the failing health of my father, and my wife tearing her Achilles tendon. It has been hard seeing the deteriorating health of my father. He was always, strong, hardworking and fiercely independent. Now he is helpless. It was hard to hear him moan and groan due to severe pain. It was difficult to be thankful. At times, there was no locomotive of thankfulness running on my tracks. Instead, the locomotive of fear, anxiety, anger and sorrow ran through my track of life. God helped me get out of myself by remembering my 2024 Key Verse, Psalm 1:2,3 “but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—Whatever they do prospers.” God helped me memorize and rebuke my negative thoughts through the word of God. I had to preach and rebuke myself. I repeatedly said, “Thank you Jesus!” In this way, God revived my spirit and soul.

Third, Give thanks for He is our salvation

The word “Eucharist” comes from a Greek word that means “having given thanks”. The Eucharist is the sacrament of the Body and Blood of Jesus, which he established at the Last Supper on the night before his crucifixion. We give thanks through communion for Jesus who is our savior. We give thanks for Jesus who offered his body and blood for our salvation.

God is a righteous judge. He has to do something with sinners because he is just. How does God administer justice upon us? Through punishment? No! Through love! Isaiah 53:5 reads, “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.” God’s love was revealed when Christ took that penalty, we fully deserved on Himself on the cross. How did he do this? Jesus experienced condemnation, I received salvation. He experienced death, I receive life. He received justice, I received mercy. Jesus was sinless and perfect and he is God. He died not for his sins, but for each of us. Because of what Jesus did, God’s wrath was satisfied. Because of what Jesus did, we can stand before the presence of a Holy God.

Ephesian 2:8 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God” The best gift we can ever receive is God’s salvation. Praise God for this gift of salvation. We don’t deserve this gift. This is grace! Because of this gift of the blood and body of Christ, all we can do is respond in thanks. God gave us Christ as a gift, what you do with that gift is your gift to God!

I thank God for Jesus who is my savior. Praise God who saved me from sin and death. As a young college student, I was directionless and a slave to all kinds of vices. My hope was to be a rock musician and leeching off my parents. God saved me from the darkness into his marvelous light. God solved my identity problem. I had a victim’s mentality. I thought I would not amount to much because of my race, was not rich, not hardworking, etc. But these were all Satan’s lies. Through Genesis 1:31, “God saw all that he had made and it was very good.” For the first time, I realized I was good and through Jesus Christ, I realized was deeply loved. This began my transformation and sanctification as a child of God! God healed me of many sins when I accepted God’s gift through Jesus Christ. May God help us to be thankful of the gift of Jesus’ blood and body for each of us this Thanksgiving!

Practically, how can we overcome an unthankful heart? What do we do when we face disappointments, painful trials, etc.? By default, we tend to gravitate to negative thoughts. We wonder what sin have I committed? 2 Cor 10:5 gives us good advice, “5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” They say in sports, a tough mentality is just as important as skills. Living a thankful life requires more than that! It takes a daily, moment by moment life of discipline. We have to take any pretension (‘false claims’) and make it obedient to Christ! We should train our hearts and minds to remember the 1000 things God has done for us through Christ rather than only dwell on 1 or 2 things that makes us miserable.

At these difficult times, God helped me not to look inward rather look at my savior. In spite of many trials, God helped me to count his numerous blessings. In spite of hardship, I could focus on his many blessings. God helped me to look at God’s gift of salvation. In this year, I became a grandpa. Ramon and Sarah welcomed Yasmin into the world. She was a comfort to my wife and I. She is a ball of energy like her mom. In addition, I have a new son in law Julio who married my daughter Becky. He is the kindest person I know, next to Jim Cook. We could also open our lake house to many church members to have food, fun and fellowship. Life is both happy and sad. In all things God works for our good! I can learn to be thankful in all circumstances!

In summary, let’s pray thanksgiving may become like spiritual breathing for each of us. I pray we not let ingratitude invade our hearts. May we deeply realize being that being thankful is a matter of life and death. Let’s also give thanks that God works for our good. He uses hardship to build our faith, character and perseverance. Finally, let’s thank God who saves us from the power of sin and death. Let’s celebrate the Eucharist remembering what Jesus did for us on the cross.

Questions

1. Why is giving thanks a matter of life and death (Rom 1:21-22)? How is gratitude and thanksgiving a health emotion (Prov 17:22)? How does ingratitude contribute to a multitude of sins and health issues?

2. God’s will is mysterious and unknowable, but what is one thing for sure about God’s will (1 Thess 5:18)? What is the difference between Give thanks FOR vs Give thanks IN? What does Romans 8:28 teach us about God’s mysterious will upon our lives?

3. The word Eucharist in Greek means “having given thanks”. Why should we give thanks for the body and blood of Jesus (Isaiah 53:5, Ephesians 2:8)?

4. Practically, how do we overcome a heart of ingratitude (2 Cor 10:5)? What personal disciplines do you practice to promote a lifestyle of thanksgiving?

ACCEPT GOD’S WORD AS GOD’S WORD

1 Thessalonians 2:13-20

Key Verse:13:

“And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.”

Look at verse 13. “¹³ And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.”  Here “also” means that previously Paul had other thanksgiving topics for the Thessalonian believers. Paul was thankful to God for the Thessalonian believers because of their faith, love, and hope in Jesus Christ. He wrote in 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3, “We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers. We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” Here the words “work, labor, endurance” are words of actions. As human beings, we are only prompted and compelled to do something beyond our normal tendencies when we are inspired by something or by someone. For example, when we have a lot of expenses to pay for, we are compelled to work hard and make money. When mid-term exams are approaching students begin to study harder. What inspired these believers? Paul made it clear in verse 13 that the believers accepted God’s word as “the word of God.” Paul in the first two chapters associated the “the word of God” to the “gospel,” which means good news. We can see in chapter 1:5, chapter 2:4, 8-9. So, it was hearing and accepting the gospel that changed their lives 180 degrees. Paul said that it was the word of God that was working in the hearts and lives of those who believed. This is a constant theme in the Bible and in the lives of believers because God’s word is powerful and life changing.

According to the Bible the heavens were made by God’s word. Psalm 33:6, “By the word of the Lord were the heavens made, their starry host by the breath of his mouth.” As we know from our Genesis 1, God made the heavens and earth by his mere commands. As God’s word has power to make everything out of nothing, it can change the lives of those who accept God’s word in their hearts. St. Augustine was one of the most influential theologians in church history. But before his conversion he was known as a womanizer and loved to party. This is why he was known as the unlikely saint[Pic 1] —a playboy to a saint. But the word of God that changed the course of his life comes from Romans 13:13-14, “Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.” His change in life reminded me of the of this man. Does anyone know who this handsome man is? [Pic2] His name is Joshua Broome and he was an ex-porn star who became a pastor. He is pictured here with his wife Hope. His life direction was changed by the word of God from Romans 12:2, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Maybe he can be known as the unlikely pastor—from a porn star to a pastor. As a teenager, Maria Peace hated herself because she compared herself to blonde and gorgeous Americans. She thought she was no good and became a depression patient. But through 1-1 Bible study with Christy Toh God’s word touched her heart from Genesis 1:31a, “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.” She realized and accepted that she was very good in the sight of God. She no longer became depressed or felt pity for herself. She accepted God’s word that she is a beautiful daughter of God. Then she began to serve God wholeheartedly as a Bible teacher for young college students. [Pic 3] As a teenager, I was motivated by my competitive spirit and anger towards others. So, through sports I struggled with others and became proud when I beat them. But in the end, I was not happy but became only a proud and self-centered person. Then through 1-1 Bible study my heart was changed by Genesis 35:10, “God said to him, ‘Your name is Jacob, but you will no longer be called Jacob; your name will be Israel.’ So he named him Israel.” Israel means “he struggles with God.” Through this word God changed my life direction from struggling with men and struggle spiritually with God. Instead of struggling with others, God helped me to be a shepherd and Bible teacher for others. [Pic 4] You remember Neil, though he went back to Cincinnati, we continue to meet for Bible study on Zoom. According to the Bible, when we accept God’s word in our hearts our minds and desires are also transformed. We no longer want to conform to the pattern of the world, but according to God’s plan for our lives. We also want to imitate the good example of our brothers and sisters around the world like the Thessalonian believers did.

Look at verse 14. “¹⁴ For you, brothers and sisters, became imitators of God’s churches in Judea, which are in Christ Jesus: You suffered from your own people the same things those churches suffered from the Jews…” As you know, imitation is known as the best compliment to those we imitate. It was interesting several weeks ago when we celebrated our granddaughter’s birthday, she asked everyone to put on a costume. People came imitating their favorite characters. [Pic 5] This was also the party where Elena ruptured her achilles tendon. What about the believers in Thessalonica, who did they imitate? They honored the saints by imitating their Christian lives of faith. For example, they imitated the lives of Paul, Timothy, Silas, and other believers that Paul must have told them about. After accepting Jesus as the Lord of our life, the Bible encourages us to no longer conform to the pattern of the world. As we read earlier from Romans 12:2. It means that we don’t have to keep envying the people of the world who seem to have the perfect life with all their wealth and pleasure-seeking lifestyle. But they are not living according to God’s will when they only live for their own self-aggrandizement. Rather, we imitate those who following God’s will because we want find what God’s good, pleasing, and perfect will is for our own lives as well.

Though it is difficult to bear, part of imitating God’s people is sharing in their sufferings. Verse 14b reads, “You suffered from your own people the same things those churches suffered from the Jews…” As human beings, we must discernment to know the difference between bad suffering and good suffering. We will never be able to avoid suffering in this fallen world. What I call bad suffering are those things that really don’t help us and cause us to only deteriorate humanly and spiritually. For example, bad suffering is like being addicted to drugs or pornography. We all know what can happen if we are. I know that there are people here who like to run or lift weights. These would be good sufferings because we know that these activities, like running, help build our cardio, VO₂ max (volume of oxygen your lungs take in during exercise), which is known to prolong a person’s life. Lifting weights actually cause micro tears in our muscles, which are replaced with stronger muscles. Sometimes we suffer to lose one job only to find a new and better job. Students suffer several years studying hard, but in the end, they earn a college or university degree. In the same way, suffering for the gospel and God’s work is actually good for us because it strengthens our faith and hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, which are our spiritual muscles building up. Romans 5:3-5 read, “Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character, and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts, by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.” Wow! When we suffer for the gospel, in the end, God pours out his love into our hearts! This is why the Apostle Paul was not sad that they were being persecuted for their faith, but was thankful to God for their perseverance, in the midst of suffering. One woman was being interviewed because she was being persecuted for her faith. She smiled and answered, “If they are attacking me, it must mean I’m doing something right.” Instead of being scared, she considered being persecuted for her faith a badge of honor. As mentioned in previous messages, the Jews were opposing the work of Paul wherever he went. They really hated what the Apostle Paul was preaching. Why? In brief, because in their pride and arrogance, they did not want the Gentiles to receive the message of salvation.

Look at verses 15-16. “¹⁵ who killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets and also drove us out. They displease God and are hostile to everyone ¹⁶ in their effort to keep us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. In this way they always heap up their sins to the limit. The wrath of God has come upon them at last.^[a]” The persecution at that time was so severe that it could cause one to lose his or her life. Sometimes, we feel today if someone disagrees with our Christian beliefs, we are being severely persecuted. But at that time and in the Old Testament, they killed Jesus and the prophets. The last of the Old Testament prophet was John the Baptist, whom Herod beheaded. The Jews wanted to kill Paul, but he, Silas, and Timothy were able to escape to another city. Paul wrote that these persecutors not only displease God, but are hostile to everyone. According to religious demographers, more Christians were martyred in the 20^th century than all previous centuries combined. And it’s still going on in this century. ^[b] Of course, we will not hear much about this in our news because many people are not interested in hearing about Christians dying for their faith. Whether we agree to it or not, the fight against Christianity is basically a fight against morality. Those who oppose Christianity want to live their lives and their sexual freedom as they see fit. They don’t want anything or anyone to tell them how to live their lives nor have any restrictions on their sinful activities. And they will even become hostile and impudent against those who oppose their values. In brief, they will oppose Christianity to stop people from believing, while they themselves will propagate and enforce their own values on others. But our job is not to judge these people, because their judge is God, who will bring his wrath upon them in his right time. For example, to the Apostle Paul writing this letter, his greater and more important concern were the spiritual condition of the believers, whom he desperately wanted to see in person.

Look at verses 17-18. “¹⁷ But, brothers and sisters, when we were orphaned by being separated from you for a short time (in person, not in thought), out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you. ¹⁸ For we wanted to come to you—certainly I, Paul, did, again and again—but Satan blocked our way.” In these verses, we see Paul using very emotional words in regards to their separation from the brothers and sisters in Thessalonica. He wrote that they “were orphaned by being separated from you.” Unless you are an orphan it is probably unlikely, that you or I can understand the emotional pain that it causes the person orphaned. We know that God understands their pain and commands believers to take care of widows and orphans. Even though Paul didn’t have his own children, he understood deeply the agony of being separated from your loved ones because he deeply loved the believers in Thessalonica. Paul also shared the shepherd heart of God for them.  We see here one of the reasons Paul’s ministry was successful there. He deeply loved the believers there and they knew it. As some of you may know, Maria and I have been leading a prayer meeting for Ukraine with other members from around the world for more than 2 and a half years. Among the prayer topics is that 19,000 Ukrainian children who were taken to Russia may be returned home. So many people are crying because these precious children were taken away. We remember that Paul was taken away from the ministry in Thessalonica, which he started, prematurely because of severe persecution.  Paul was suffering what we can call spiritual separation anxiety.

Some of us may have experienced this when we have taken our children to daycare or kindergarten for the first time. When they are very young and are taken away from a parent they are crying and having anxiety because they are being separated from someone that they had found comfort and security in during their short life. When Maria and I babysit our grandchildren, who has not seen their parent the whole day or a few days, and they finally are reunited. They are smiling, jumping for joy, and excited to be reunited. [Pic 6] There can even be separation anxiety even with pets and their pet owners. Some pets anxiously sit by the door waiting for their owner to come home. [Pic 7] Maria and I know an international teacher while we were living and working in Ukraine, who could not bear herself from separating from her cats. She had some opportunities to go back and visit America with her husband, while they lived in Ukraine. She would sometimes let her husband go back to America while she stayed with her cats. Paul was longing for this reunion and tried his best to find a way back there. As you know, we have a saying in English, “out of sight, out of mind.” Paul really wanted to see them again face to face. Because of our human desires to see our friends and families who are far away face to face, the website Facebook made billions of dollars. Maria and I are in constant contact with our church members in Kyiv, Ukraine, via Telegram or Zoom. Even though we are away from each other we can still see each other face to face. In fact, almost every Sunday morning I get up 5:30 am to watch their worship service on Zoom. Usually, on Sundays the majority of people in the world sleep in. But it’s the day I get up the earliest during the week. But I don’t mind because I want to see the faces of Podil UBF coworkers. Actually, I attend and serve two churches—Podil UBF and WL UBF. Also, during most weeks I have Zoom Bible study with three Ukrainian brothers—face to face. [Pic 8]

According to verse 18, Satan blocked Paul’s way to go back. What does this mean? It meant that Paul had such spiritual keenness that he could distinguish clearly God’s leading and Satan’s attack. For example, when Paul was starting his second missionary journey he wanted to actually go to Asia, but the Holy Spirit stopped him from going there. He was guided by the Holy Spirit to go to Macedonia. As God’s children, it is imperative for us to distinguish the difference between God’s leading and Satan’s misleading us. A good example of this is when Jesus, at the beginning of his earthly ministry, was led by the Holy Spirit to the desert. Why? To face the devil and all his temptations. Wow! The Holy Spirit led Jesus to face the devil’s temptations. But it was necessary because Jesus had to confront and defeat mankind’s arch enemy the devil. If Jesus could not overcome all the devil’s temptation, then there was no hope for mankind. But we all know what the final result was. Praise God! We must also know that God does not tempt us to sin against him. The devil tempts us to sin against God. For example, when a student has to study the night before an important exam, his friends invite him to party where the cute girl you like will be there. You can be sure it’s not from God. Or when you really want to lose weight but someone puts a delicious piece of cake on your plate. Or when it’s time to go to church but your friends invite you to watch a football game. But God empowers his people with his strength so that they can overcome the devil’s temptation. First Corinthians 10:13 reads, “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand under it.” We do not fully understand in this text how Satan was blocking Paul from going back. We can only speculate. But there will be times when we may be separated from our beloved brothers and sisters due to circumstances beyond our control. Maria and I had planned to stay in Ukraine longer, but because of the war started by Russia in Ukraine more than 2 years ago we had to return to Chicago. We have gone back two times this year to visit our church members there [Pic 9] and plan to visit them again next year—in March and May. Though it can be difficult and dangerous to visit Ukraine in a time of war we can understand the heart of Paul who wanted to see the Thessalonian believers again because they brought him much joy.

Look at verses 19-20. “¹⁹ For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? ²⁰ Indeed, you are our glory and joy.” If you may remember, in chapter 2 verses 1-6, Apostle Paul had to defend himself because his enemies were telling lies to the believers in Thessalonica that he didn’t care about them and that is why he left the city. They were trying to defame and destroy his integrity and character saying that he was only a charlatan and false teacher. But in these last two verses we see that it was not the case at all. Not only Paul, but Silas and Timothy also loved them so much that Paul called said about them, “our hope, our joy, our crown.” Paul’s motive in serving the church and God’s people was because he was looking forward to Jesus’ return. In chapter 1 verse 10, he ended with the words, “and to wait for his Son from heaven.” In verse 19, he wrote “in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes.” Paul was considering his eternal hope and his eternal reward. In light of his enemies’ false accusations, Paul will be justified in heaven when the believers are rejoicing with him in there. They would have been right for listening to the Apostle Paul’s gospel message instead of the listening to the lies of the false teachers. Paul was not boasting about his accomplishments and number of Bible students he had. Rather, he was boasting in the gospel and its authenticity, that whoever believes the gospel message will be saved and have eternal life. The Thessalonian believers were living proof of the veracity and powerful effect of the gospel in the lives of those who accept the salvation work of Jesus.

In the gospels, Jesus talked about how we can rejoice with the heavenly angels. Luke 15:10, “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” This means that we can also share in this joy when God uses us to help others to repent and accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Of course, we cannot save others, but God can use us as his instrument to bring the good news of the gospel to others. Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 1:14, “…as you have understood us in part, you can boast of us just as we will boast of you in the day of the Lord Jesus.” I hope that you like to hear testimonies of how people were saved from their miserable lives of sin and became a child of God because in heaven we will hear beautiful and life changing testimonies of all believers. We will hear about the powerful work of God in and through his servants. How wonderful it will to hear in heaven from someone saying to you or me, “Thank you that while on earth you shared the gospel with me and now, I can live in eternal happiness because of your good Christian influence on earth.” This is why Paul in verse 20, called the Thessalonian believers his glory and joy. May God help us to accept God’s word as God’s word, and not from men. In this way, the word of God can work in and through us to bring lost sinners to Jesus. May we be able to say like the Apostle Paul, not in pride or human boasting, you are our hope, our joy, and our crown. Amen.

Footnotes

1. 1 Thessalonians 2:16Or them fully
2. https://www.americamagazine.org/issue/modern-martyrs

1 Thessalonians 2 13-20 final

Bible Study Questions:

ACCEPT GOD’S WORD AS GOD’S WORD
1 Thessalonians 2:13-20
Key Verse:13:
“And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.”

1.Look at 1 Thess. 2:13. Why was Paul thankful to God for the Thessalonian believers? Why was it important that the Thessalonian believers accepted Paul’s message as God’s word, not men? What must be our attitude towards God’s word? (Rom. 10:17; 2 Tim. 3:16; Ps. 119:105)

2. Look at 1 Thess. 2:14. What was the second reason Paul was thankful for them? How did the Thessalonian believers become imitators of believers in Judea? What did Jesus say about suffering for God’s people? (Jn. 15:20-21) Why is perseverance in suffering so important for God’s people? (Rom. 5:3-5) Who do you try to imitate?

3. Look at 1 Thess. 2:15-16. In contrast, how were the attitudes of the Jews towards Jesus, the prophets (God’s word) and God’s people? Why did the Jews not want the Gentiles to hear the message of salvation? How would God treat such rebellious and unrepentant people? (Mt. 21:38-41)

4. Look at 1 Thess. 2:17-18. How was Paul torn away from the believers in Thessalonica? (Ac. 17:10) Though the believers were out of Paul’s sight, why were they not out of his mind? Though Paul made every effort to visit them, who was stopping them? Why does Satan, in particular, want to attack the leaders of the church? (Lk. 22:31-32)

5. Look at 1 Thess. 2:19-20. What was Paul’s hope, joy, and crown? Why was this contradictory to his enemies who said he didn’t care about the believers in Thessalonica? What is the relationship between Paul’s attitude towards the believers with Jesus’ return? While on earth, how can we share in the joy in heaven? (Lk. 15:7, 10, 32)

1 Thessalonians 2 (NIV)

13 And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe. 14 For you, brothers and sisters, became imitators of God’s churches in Judea, which are in Christ Jesus: You suffered from your own people the same things those churches suffered from the Jews 15 who killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets and also drove us out. They displease God and are hostile to everyone 16 in their effort to keep us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. In this way they always heap up their sins to the limit. The wrath of God has come upon them at last.[a]
Paul’s Longing to See the Thessalonians
17 But, brothers and sisters, when we were orphaned by being separated from you for a short time (in person, not in thought), out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you. 18 For we wanted to come to you—certainly I, Paul, did, again and again—but Satan blocked our way. 19 For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? 20 Indeed, you are our glory and joy.

Footnotes
a. 1 Thessalonians 2:16 Or them fully