2 Thessalonians 1:1-12 My husband and I were so excited about beautifying our backyard, so we went and bought some brightly colored azaleas and other plants. We labored to plant them. As we look today at our back garden, we see only dried-up bushes. We had such a drought this summer, and because of water restrictions, we could not water the plants. They all withered and died.
Such is the case in the life of many Christians. With great enthusiasm they receive Jesus and then begin to plant God’s Word in their hearts. Often, however, the enthusiasm wains, and suddenly they find themselves in a spiritual drought. The only way out of a spiritual drought is to begin once again to refresh your spirit with the water of God’s Spirit and His Word.
Our New Testament reading today speaks of three things we are to grow in daily—faith, love and patience. Paul says, “We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting, because your faith grows exceedingly, and the love of every one of you all abounds toward each other” (v. 3).
What a compliment Paul paid to the church at Thessalonica. He said their faith was growing exceedingly and their love toward one another was abounding. He goes on to say that their patience also was great.
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if others noticed we were growing daily in faith toward God, love toward one another and patience in all circumstances and tribulations? How is your garden growing today? It might be time to water faith, love and patience with the Word of God poured upon you by the Holy Spirit.
Paul ends this reading in Thessalonians with a wonderful prayer. I would like to pray a similar prayer for you this morning and also for myself:
Father, in Jesus’ name I pray for the persons reading this devotional. I pray that they would be counted worthy of their calling and fulfill all the good pleasure of Your goodness and the work of faith with power. I pray that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ might be glorified in them according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
READ: Jeremiah 22:1-23:20; 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12; Psalm 83:1-18; Proverbs 25:11-14
Chris Garcia 
Rabbi Eric Tokajer 
Mike Shreve