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Read: 1 Thessalonians 2:6-7
Listen: 1 Thessalonians 2

We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority.  Instead, we were like young children among you. 1 Thessalonians 2:6-7

Paul comes to Thessalonica like an innocent child, free of the need to prove himself or impress others. He does not desire fame, recognition or approval. He only wants to share the gospel and be in community with them. This was significant, considering Paul’s background. As a former religious leader, he was preoccupied with making an impression. Now, he is free from the exhausting task of maintaining an appearance. He knows he is infinitely loved by Jesus. There is no one greater to impress. The gospel has freed him to be who God created him to be. He wants the Thessalonians to experience this freedom as well.

Our world fixates on making a good impression. We may seek recognition through curated social media posts, our fashion or achievements. But we gain nothing by centering our lives around the approval of others. Paul knew that God’s love through Jesus releases people from the chains of others’ expectations. A gospel shaped life is secure in the infinite love of Christ and only needs approval from him. When we receive that love and forgiveness from God, we live a gospel shaped life that reflects his love to the world around us.

TODAY: Write the gospel’s message on your heart by memorizing 2 Corinthians 5:21. “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” Think about what Jesus took on to set us free and make us right with God. Return to this truth throughout your day and ask God to deepen your understanding.

JESUS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT:

Read Ezra 5-6. Highlight anything that points to Jesus. Pay attention to the opposition faced in rebuilding. Reflect on how Jesus faced opposition in his ministry (John 15:18).