I love thinking about Paul’s words in 1 Thessalonians 3. It’s a challenge to remember a different way to live. It’s an invitation to care deeply about others. He writes, “For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord. 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?”
Can you imagine believing your own life and joy were somehow inextricably tied to the spiritual well-being of others? Can you imagine inhabiting Paul’s joy?
We stand firm. We press on to help others stand firm.