Strengthened Hearts

 

Psalm 145: 1-5, 17-21; II Thessalonians 2:13-17

 The Thessalonians are in turmoil. False teachers have told them that Christ’s return has already happened, that Christ has come and gone without them. This leaves many wondering. Are they putting up with this persecution for nothing? Should they give up on the faith?

Paul affirms for them that Christ hasn’t returned yet. He reminds them again that they are chosen of God. They are the first fruits of salvation due to the sanctification by the Spirit and their belief in the truth. The purpose God has called them, through Paul’s proclamation of the Good News, is that they may obtain the glory of Christ. He is encouraging them not to give up, not to believe the falsehoods they are hearing. They are to stand firm and hold fast to the traditions taught to them by the apostles by word of mouth or by their letters.

Paul is praying that Christ and God, who gave us love and through grace gave eternal comfort and good hope in the eternal life of glory which is still to come, will comfort and strengthen their hearts in every good work and word they continue to do for God.

Psalm 145 is a praise to God and God’s works to all generations. The Psalmist’s heart is strengthened remembering God’s wonderous works and how God is just in all God’s ways. The Lord is near to all who call on God, to all who call in truth. For those who fear God, God fulfills their desires, hears their cries, and saves them. The Psalmist steadfastly claims that the Lord watches over all who love God. This Old Testament writer is claiming the New Testament definition of grace being the active presence and power of God in our lives.

This is what the Thessalonians need to hold fast to and what they can strengthen their hearts with. It is only by this grace of God that we can strengthen our hearts today during times of trouble. We like the Psalmist need to hold fast to the claim that God is present with us, will hear our cry, and with God’s power will save us. Due to this we can lift up praises to the ever present and powerful God. Amen.

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