Settle Down
Today’s scripture selection: Second Thessalonians 1-3
Key verse: Second Thessalonians 3:11
There were times when the apostle Paul would just “tell it like it is.”
Take this little passage for example:
“We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat. And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.”
That just about says it all.
No excuses; no easy way out. Just “settle down” and get to work. And I love that nice little turn of phrase how they “are not busy; they are busybodies.”
Now, on the one hand, such words could be used as a license to be insensitive; even cruel. The kind of people who like to sneer at the downcast and truly troubled and shout “GET A JOB!” might have a field day here. I can’t imagine that’s what Paul would approve.
On the other hand, there is something to be said for challenging self-absorbed, selfish, “busybodies” who do more harm than good. And, sadly, there are plenty of those around.
So Paul’s warning is worth heeding.
Not as permission to go about wagging our heads and fingers at those whom we think don’t “measure up” to our standards of productivity. But to remember that we all have a calling – a vocation – as God’s children – to make the world a better place and to be instruments of grace however we can; wherever we can.
“Never tire of doing what is good.”
It’s as if Paul was saying – you have some real troublemakers among you – and they better take warning. God will judge them for their actions. But as for the rest of you – you get busy too – there is much to be done for the kingdom, and so little time.
All in all, it comes down to this. Let’s all settle down and get to work – being kingdom people. Let’s get busy. And to God be the glory.
Prayer: Father, show me your will, that I may answer your call, with enthusiasm and energy. AMEN.
IGW3 - In God's Word, In God's Will, In God's Work 