Scripture Text: 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15
For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.
2 Thessalonians 3:10
Nowadays, everyone is living and earning to support their living here on earth, due to the fact that we have bills to pay and responsibilities to fulfill. And these are the reasons why we are working not only to make sure that we settle our bills, but also to sustain our daily needs.
In addition, being part of each household and a church, we also have to give contributions to help each other and make sure that everyone has their own share in giving back to God and helping our brethren that are truly in need.
Apostle Paul reminded the people of Thessalonica to stay away from people who refused to work, not those who are out of work, but those who do not want to work. He also reminded them that when he was with the Thessalonians, he never got lazy and these people did not follow what he had taught and illustrated to them.
Moreover, Apostle Paul emphasized that while they were serving the church, they did not receive any free lodging or food; instead they worked for it even though the church could support them. They have to do it to set an example to them—that they should help one another and to not cause any burden to each other.
Whoever will not work should not be allowed to eat. This stands as a reminder to every Christians, to continually earn for a living and to not depend on the help of other Christians. And it will cause other people to be busy meddling in somebody's lives, in this way it does not give glory to our God.
Thus, these people were called out by Apostle Paul and reminded us to rebuke them, so they may be enlightened and do what is right. The Church must cut off support from people who refrain from working, so they will feel ashamed and be reminded to function properly as a God's proper people.
Reflect
1. Do we teach people to earn for a living and to not just rely on other people?
2. Are we doing our best to not be a burden financially by working and earning for our needs?
Remember
The church funds and Christian contribution should always be used for the advancement of the Kingdom of God and not for the individual consumption of someone who refrains to earn for a living. While charity is good, being lazy is another thing.
Read
1 Timothy 5:8; Proverbs 10:4-5; Proverbs 24: 30-34
Pray
I pray to You, Father, my Provider and my Lord, to keep me from being stagnant and take for granted the blessings that You provide through my brethren. Teach me to be dependent on You alone and not with anyone else. Give me strength to earn my living while advancing Your kingdom. In Jesus' Name, I pray. Amen.
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