2 Thessalonians 3:6 -10
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 (2 Thessalonians 3:7, NIV).

Today’s Bible reading is an exhortation to live right, work hard and mind one’s business. In it we are encouraged to live a productive life as believers so that we can be examples to others. We must not be found among those who cause confusion. We must not be lazy or act in disruptive manner.

Paul made his audience to understand the basis for the authority they have to instruct them. When they were with them they acted right, worked for their living so that they would not be a burden to anyone. They lived in such manner so that they would be role models for the church.

I am wondering if we can use some wisdom from this passage. I had raised this concern before. Will it be helpful if some churches have bi-vocational ministers so their congregation is not burdened with their total upkeep? Will this also help some ministers from falling into traps of wanting to live like the members of their congregations, if not better?

You see, there is nothing wrong with wanting the good life but when it moves to excessive ambition or materialism, we must watch it. Whatever your take is on this, the key thing is that we should not give room for idle talks about us. We are to live as example. May the Lord help us. Shalom.

Your Turn

• Pray for yourself.

Hymn: Lord, I want to be like Jesus in my heart.

Further Reading: 1  Peter  2:21.