Unshakable Hope - First Thessalonians 3:1-3

Pastor Verne preaching on our “Unshakable Hope” from First Thessalonians 3:1-3. Life is full of twists and turns, unexpected and unplanned circumstances which seek to shake us and cause us to feel unstable and insecure. God’s Word teaches us, “that no one should be shaken by these afflictions” (3:3a). The Apostle Paul sent his protégé Timothy back to Thessalonica because of his genuine concern for them (3:1-2). The arrival of Timothy was a wonderful display of Christian concern for others more than for self. Timothy’s activities were to minister to them and to labor with them. He also arrived with a message that was centered on their faith. He sought to establish and encourage them. The value of their faith was seen in the face of the afflictions that pressed against them (3:3a). These afflictions were not to shake them, but to strengthen them. These afflictions were appointed by God (3:3b) to direct them on the straight and narrow path. Remaining close to the Lord when people or circumstances attempt to shake us are where our security and stability are found and known.