Afternoon Devotion

February 7, 2025

Afternoon Bible Verse

1 Thessalonians 4:11-12

And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you; That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.

Afternoon Bible Study

The late advice columnist Ann Landers once said: "Make someone happy today, mind your own business."

In our social media-driven world, we know more about others than ever before. People share personal photos, political and religious thoughts, life events, triumphs, problems, pet peeves, and all kinds of other revelations. Even if we try to avoid it, we are still made aware of other people's business.

In 1 Thessalonians, Paul encourages the people of Thessalonica (an ancient city in Greece) not to meddle in other people's business. The more we know about our neighbors, the more opportunities we'll have to concern ourselves with their lives and gossip about them.

Paul also instructs the Thessalonians to work with their own hands. Later on, in 2 Thessalonians, we learn that there were idle people who spent their time getting into trouble by interfering in the affairs of others. It's possible that these unproductive actions kept them from fulfilling their responsibilities.

Throughout the Bible, we are reminded to keep our hearts and minds focused on God. With our eyes fixed on Jesus, we imitate His behavior instead of giving in to our sinful nature. This godly choice sets us apart from the rest of the world that craves the latest news whether it's true or not. We can reflect God's character as we genuinely love one another by minding our own business.

Afternoon Prayer

God, you know the challenges I encounter every day. When people talk about me, it hurts. Help me to be aware of the things I say so I don't inflict that same hurt on others. Use my words to draw others closer to you. Give me the right words to speak at the right time. In Jesus' name, amen.

If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.

-C.S. Lewis

God will not look you over for medals, degrees or diplomas but for scars.

-Elbert Hubbard

The Christian does not think God will love us because we are good, but that God will make us good because He loves us.

-C.S. Lewis

If you want to know what God thinks of money, just look at the people he gave it to.

-Dorothy Parker

Yesterday's Devotional

February 6, 2025

Yesterday's Afternoon Bible Verse

1 Peter 5:10

But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.

Yesterday's Afternoon Bible Study

Christian persecution did not end with the deaths of the New Testament disciples. Even today, followers of Jesus are being tortured, killed, and mocked for their faith.

The Apostle Peter is well known for his poor choice in denying Jesus three times. However, God called Peter to build His church. Peter encountered persecution and understood what it meant to suffer for Christ. It didn't stop him from sharing the Gospel.

1 Peter 5:10 says that our suffering will last for "a while." When we face difficult situations, it provides an opportunity for our faith in God to grow. The scripture says that God will strengthen us. He doesn't want us to endure suffering in our own strength. He wants us to rely on Him like never before.

When Jesus suffered and died for our sins, His character never wavered. He was steadfast in reflecting His Father in every action. After we have endured hardship and stood firmly in our faith, we will look more like Jesus—our supreme example.

Suffering is painful, but it is also temporary. We know that when this life is over, we will spend eternity with Christ. This assurance can give us peace that sustains us no matter what we endure.

Yesterday's Afternoon Prayer

Lord, I'm so thankful that the mistakes I've made do not cancel your calling on my life. Thank you for your grace that gives me the ability to start over. Sometimes life can be hard. Please give me the strength to endure and build your character in my life. When I feel discouraged, help me to keep my eyes on you. In Jesus' name, amen.