“Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work” 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
Paul’s prayer for the Thesslonian believers is my prayer for you and me today. He prays that Jesus Himself and God the Father would personally grant these blessings. Yes, God blesses often through different means and instruments. But, no matter what tool He may use, the blessing is coming directly from Him. Paul gets tender speaking of the Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope. The Father’s love is deep, rich and profound for His children. He has given us an eternal hope and a forever consolation. The believer always has reason to hope and rejoice in view of the day of glory that awaits us.
Paul prays that this loving and generous God would comfort their hearts. Spiritual comfort, encouragement and strength from God to our hearts, what a needed blessing! We need hearts that are more governed by God’s love and hope than our unbelieving fears and selfish ambitions. Then, that we would be established in every good word and work. Hearts that are comforted and strengthened, then true words spoken and godly deeds done. We may start in a good word and work, but have trouble with consistency. That’s why we need this prayer! God Himself will help us to be stabilized in every good word and work as we seek Him.
How do we press on? How can we endure difficulties with faithfulness? How can we grow consistently? Because it doesn’t merely depend on us. The Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father who loves us, is faithful to continue His work in us. To Him be all the glory and praise! Amen.