Scripture & history are full of examples of men and women who were faced with tough choices in resisting the governing authorities. When is this appropriate and when is it not? From Romans 13 and 1 Peter 4.

Hundreds of thousands of songs have been written about our God through the generations. Old ones connect us to the faith of our ancestors. New songs are a fresh expression of a new generation. New or old, God invites us to bring a heart of worship. From Colossians 3

Assurance of our future in eternity is empowering when we have certainty and debilitating when we have doubt. For those in Christ, God wants you to know confidently your place is secure. From 1 John.

Proverbs encourages us to fear the Lord because it is the beginning of wisdom. What does it mean to fear him? Why is that the beginning of wisdom?

Pain is a common human experience, but our reaction to it varies widely. Paul uses his own pain as an example of God’s grace to encourage others who are also going through hardship. Perhaps it is time for you to use your pain in a similar way. From 2 Corinthians 12.

The way we view our work is important. While everyone enjoys a paycheck, the Christian has deeper motivations. Our work is a witness and an opportunity for generosity. From 2 Thessalonians 3.

There is no shortage of deception in today’s world. It takes discernment to find truth. The church in Thessalonica was struggling with some false news and needed clarity. Paul, Silas, & Timothy write to encourage them to stand on truth and find encouragement that evil is always subject to the power of God.

In this opening to 2 Thessalonians, the young church is facing significant hardship & persecution. Paul, Silas, and Timothy want them to think correctly about their sufferings and that God will make things right. While we wait for his coming, do you believe God can work through you to bring goodness into a dark world?

As Paul concludes his first letter to this young church, he challenges them to consider what their role is in building up leaders and encouraging those who are struggling. From 1 Thessalonians 5:12-22

One of the things Scripture anticipates the most is the second coming of Jesus. Yet we have many questions about how and when it will happen. Paul & Silas write to this young church in Thessalonica to clear up some confusion so they will know how to live in light of his return.