We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing. 2 Thessalonians 1:3
Not only are there degrees of faith, there are also degrees of love. Our Lord tells us that “he who is forgiven little, loves little” (Luke 7:47), and the one who has been forgiven much, loves much.
Paul is saying, “Here is the wonderful thing we are thanking God for—your faith is growing, your love is increasing.” Growing faith and increasing love are God’s work in the hearts of these believers.
Paul must have had special joy as he wrote these words, because this is exactly what he had been praying for: “We pray most earnestly night and day that we may see you face to face and supply what is lacking in your faith… may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you” (1 Thes. 3:10, 12).
Paul was so concerned about how these believers would stand up under the pressure of all they were facing that he sent Timothy (3:5-6), and Timothy came back with this report: “They’re still suffering, but their faith is growing, and their love for each other is increasing.”
Your faith and your love are growing, even when you’re under pressure. Now, how does that happen? This is irrefutable evidence that God is at work in your life. No wonder Paul says, “We thank God for this.”
Think about some Christians you know well who are under pressure. Can you see their faith and love growing? If so, take a moment and give thanks to God for this!
