In his first letter to the Thessalonian church, the apostle Paul begins by reflecting on his memories of how they had deeply influenced and encouraged him. In fact, his inspired letter serves as a model for us, both as individuals and as a church family.

      As the letter opens, Paul identifies why they had such a profound impact on him. He recalls their “work of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.”  Faith, hope, and love—no wonder the Thessalonians impacted Paul’s heart. He writes here that their faith was not some intellectual commitment; it was active—it was the “work of faith.” Their faith produced godly works.