Many people to whom Paul writes in Thessalonica have used the anticipation of the second coming of Christ as justification to stop working and to stop doing good as commanded by Christ. Yet Paul is firm and implores believers to keep up doing both:
6 In the name of the Lord
Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from
every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to
the teaching you received from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, 8
nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we
worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a
burden to any of you. 9 We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate. 10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.”
11 We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. 12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat. 13 And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.
More broadly I see this as two commands:
1. We must not use waiting for God to act as a justification to not work - in any circumstance.
2. The definition of work also includes doing good.
My Prayer: Lord, I know that my time on earth will end in glory either by rising to be in Heaven with You or when You return to bring home all your children. Either way, I know Your love is great - that You would love us so much that You would forgive and protect us despite our brokenness. How great You are!! Forgive me for MY laziness Lord and help me continue to focus my eyes on You and Your commands to work and to produce good works. Purify and refine me Lord Jesus and make me more like You.
