​Ready for the Test?

1 Thessalonians 2:17-20 But, brothers, when we were torn away from you for a short time (in person, not in thought), out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you. 18 For we wanted to come to you — certainly I, Paul, did, again and again — but Satan stopped us. 19 For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? 20 Indeed, you are our glory and joy.
 
“INTENSE longing” and “every effort to see you” are passionate words. Why might the apostle Paul have had such a relentless desire to see the Thessalonian church? Surely other ministry opportunities were available to him.
    But Paul seems to have had a very personal relationship with the Thessalonians. Reading on, we learn the reason for his concern in 1 Thessalonians 3:4-5 In fact, when we were with you, we kept telling you that we would be persecuted. And it turned out that way, as you well know. 5 For this reason, when I could stand it no longer, I sent to find out about your faith. I was afraid that in some way the tempter might have tempted you and our efforts might have been useless.
    Paul could stand it no longer. He wanted to know if they were still faithful to the gospel. Threatened churches could quickly turn from their faith. As a good father, Paul wanted to protect his children to keep them safe because they are our glory and joy.
    But he didn’t go because Satan stopped us. Does it seem strange Satan could stop the anointed apostle? He ministered in the Spirit’s power. How could Satan stop him?
    We can think back to Revelation and understand God’s permission grants Satan power over the earth. Or we can consider Jesus’ words to Peter, “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” (Luke 22:31-32) The Bible teaches that God gives Satan permission to tempt and to bring trials to even his most faithful servants. For his own purpose, God granted Satan a way to block Paul’s travel to Thessalonica. Perhaps God wanted the church there to learn more about trusting God in all circumstances. Maybe he wanted Paul to stay in Athens to minister to a very pagan city. Possibly he wanted Timothy, who is our brother and God's fellow worker in spreading the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith, so that no one would be unsettled by these trials. (1 Thessalonians 3:2-3) 
    As we consider Paul, Silas and Timothy in ministry to Thessalonica, we can learn about being good leaders in our family and in our church. These men were called to proclaim the gospel, then begin churches to disciple new believers. It was only with a passion for God and for God’s people that they could do their work. The same passion must be a force in our lives. We need to teach, train and defend our family. We need to teach, train and defend one another in the church. In some way, each day, God allows tests to our faith. We must be prepared to face the test, small or large, to stand in our faith.