Now may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ. 2 Thessalonians 3:5
God is love! His love for us is unchanging, eternal, steadfast, and free for all. His love chases after us relentlessly, no matter how far we run. Through Christ’s selfless sacrifice, He demonstrated patience and love for us. He, being God, surrendered Himself even to the point of death, enduring hostility and humiliation for the sake of love.
God’s perfect love and patient endurance will drive us to align our lives with our Creator’s plans and purposes. An ideal example is the apostle Paul, the author of this letter. The Holy Spirit inspired him to write to the Thessalonians. Paul was once an enemy of the gospel, filled with hatred for the followers of Jesus Christ. However, one encounter with God transformed him and directed him to a purposeful life. Paul’s animosity toward Jesus’ followers shifted to his love for God and His children. Consequently, he devoted his life to Jesus Christ, staying faithful even to his last breath.
Though we live in a wicked and selfish world, our love for God should steer us to mirror the likeness of Christ. We, believers, are called to be imitators of Jesus. Nothing can discourage or distract us when we fix our eyes on Jesus (Hebrews 12: 2 – 3). Essentially, we have to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. God alone can help us run with endurance the race set before us. So today, allow God to direct your hearts and guide you deeper into the knowledge of Him.
