Stand Firm in His Love

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2 Thessalonians 2:13-15 13But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers loved by the Lord, because from the beginning God chose you[b] to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth. 14He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings[c] we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.

Paul just finished talking to the Thessalonians about the Man of Lawlessness. It seems that there were people who were falsely saying that Paul and the other apostles were preaching the end times. However, Paul assures them that when the end times do come, it will be noticeable. They themselves will see the Man of Lawlessness so plainly. Paul ends his letter by encouraging them with his gratitude for them. Paul points out that God chose them to be His children. God called them to be set apart and to share in Jesus’ glory. He tells them to stand firm in their faith.

When I am attacked spiritually, it’s like my whole foundation of belief is shaken with one thought, “Am I good enough for God’s love?” This is a whisper of the enemy and I always indulge myself in hearing it. Once I’m convinced that I need to earn God’s love, then I continue to beat myself up inside. The TRUTH is that God loves me no matter what. He chose me! He called me. I must stand firm on that. Nothing I could ever do would make Him love me less. Today I am encouraged to remember that I am chosen by God to share in Jesus Christ’s glory. When the attacks come again, for the enemy is waiting for the opportune moment to strike, I must stand firm on the truth. God loves me.

Heavenly Father, I am so sorry for ever doubting Your love for me. I’m sorry that I constantly need affirmation. I pray that You forgive me for listening to the whispers of the enemy and for beating myself up. God, I thank You for Your Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus, thank You for loving me. May I remember it all of my days. Lord, renew my mind, transform me! May I consider it all joy. You love me and everything else is second. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.