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13 We also constantly give thanks to God for this, that when you received the word of God that you heard from us you accepted it not as a human word but as what it really is, God’s word, which is also at work in you believers. 14 For you, brothers and sisters, became imitators of the churches of God in Christ Jesus that are in Judea, for you suffered the same things from your own compatriots as they did from the Jews 15 who killed both the Lord Jesus and the prophets and drove us out; they displease God and oppose everyone 16 by hindering us from speaking to the gentiles so that they may be saved. Thus, they have constantly been filling up the measure of their sins, but wrath has overtaken them at last. 17 As for us, brothers and sisters, when for a short time we were made orphans by being separated from you—in person, not in heart—we longed with great eagerness to see you face to face. 18 For we wanted to come to you—certainly I, Paul, wanted to again and again—but Satan blocked our way. 19 For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? 20 Yes, you are our glory and joy

 

I look back and see people whose words shaped my life. Sometimes they offered encouragement when I needed it most. Other times they challenged me to become the person God was calling me to be. Paul rejoices because the Thessalonians received God's Word not as a human opinion, but as the living Word of God, "which is at work in you believers." I find great comfort in that phrase because it reminds me that God isn't finished with me yet. His Word continues to shape my heart, strengthen my faith, and quietly transform my life, often in ways I don't notice until much later. That gives me hope on the days when growth feels slow, because God's work is measured by His faithfulness, not my timetable.

Lord, continue Your good work within me, and help me trust that You are shaping me day by day through Your Word. Amen.

Deborah Schroeder-Saulnier

deborah@excelleadershipsolutions.com

 

Prayer Concern: For those who are asking “where have I seen God’s Work quietly at work in my life?”