For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example, because we did not act in an undisciplined manner among you, nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it, but with labor and hardship we kept working night and day so that we would not be a burden to any of you; not because we do not have the right to this, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you, so that you would follow our example.
For even when we were with you, we used to give you this order: if anyone is not willing to work, then he is not to eat, either. For we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined life, doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies. 2 Thessalonians 3:7-11
Paul was concerned about the undisciplined behavior of some in the church in Thessalonica. For some reason they had resigned themselves to no longer work, but rather get into everyone else’s business. Perhaps they were discouraged thinking Jesus had already come and they missed Him. In this strong admonishment, Paul says to follow his example and labor for the Lord. And if not, you shouldn’t expect others to feed you. It a sense, it was the first ‘work for welfare’ program.
Am I an example of one who works in a disciplined manner for my family and the Lord?
God, thank you that You have called me to such a wonderful work that makes an eternal difference in the lives of people. As we start out together today, I pray that Your power and might will be on display. In particular, I hope to see that lease agreement written in our favor and the softening of the heart of that one special person I am praying for.
