Got faith? Got love?

S - 1 Thes. 3:5 - "For this reason, when I could stand it no longer, I sent to find out about your faith."

O - Paul had only 3 weeks to preach Christ crucified and risen to the Thesalonians before he had to leave, and the result was an on-fire church that was making an impact in a world that was opposing them. Paul was concerned so he prayed for them constantly and then sent Timothy to find out how they were doing. Paul was conforted by Timothy's report of their faith and love.

A - Paul invested his time, energry, and his heart in this church. The big question he had to ask was not about their circumstances but about their faith. It is not that circumstances don't matter, but it is faith that will help you get through your tough times. It is faith that is the key to God's heart and the key to confident living.

P - Lord, help us to be people who invest in the people that you give us - in our families, at work, in our neighborhoods and at church. Help our faith to be sure and growing and our love to be strong. In Jesus name, Amen.