“We ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love all of you have for one another is increasing.” (2 Thessalonians 1:3)
The pressures and problems of this life can leave us in dire straits. It may seem like there is no option other than to make it through with a survival mentality. With God however, we can actually be found in a season of growth during difficulty.
In the face of persecution and trials, the Thessalonian believers were commended by Paul on two accounts. First for their growing faith, and second for their growing love towards one another.
In order for faith to grow, an eternal perspective needs to be present during hardship. A looking past the “here and now” of the situation and considering the “there and then” impact in light of eternity is required. If love towards others is to grow, a team mindset is necessary. The tendency to only be concerned for oneself is an ongoing battle of the flesh. Growth potential on both fronts is determined by the shift in focus of attention off of self and onto God and others.
Dear friend, in your current difficult situation, how can you turn your focus toward God and others? Your growth under pressure is more than possible! Make a shift in your attention and let the growing begin!
