How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you? 1 Thessalonians 3:9 (NIV)
This is extraordinary. Remember that Paul is praying for a persecuted church, so it wouldn’t be surprising if his prayer was focused on their suffering and pain. But that’s not what we find. When Paul and Timothy pray for these believers, they have indescribable joy in God’s presence. Why? Because their focus is on what God is doing.
Do you have eyes to see what God is doing, or are you the kind of person who can only see problems? Some people are only interested in bad news. The latest gossip or downfall brings them alive. But Paul goes the opposite way. Yes, there are trials and there is pain, and Satan has hindered him from going to Thessalonica; however, Paul rejoices in what God is doing.
His praying isn’t, “Lord, here’s what I want you to do, so why aren’t you doing it?” Rather, his praying is, “Lord, I see what you are doing, and I rejoice in it.” What do you know about this kind of praying? Rejoicing in God’s presence on account of what He is doing in the lives of the people you love is joyful intercession.
When you see what God is doing in the lives of others, tell them. Tell your kids. Tell those you pray for what you see God doing in their lives and tell them the joy that it brings you.
Timothy was a hard worker, an effective encourager, and a joyful intercessor. These are three ways to improve your usefulness to Christ.
What can you see God doing? Rejoice in it. Give thanks. Your faith will grow and you will become increasingly useful to Christ.
