1 Thessalonians 3

This chapter speaks much of Paul's affection for the Thessalonians, and nowhere is it more strongly felt than in verses 9-10.

But first, some context may help. Paul's entire ministry to this church lasted only about a month, so obviously he was very concerned to see how they were getting along since he had been away from them. Well once he got the report from Timothy of their faith and love, he could not hide his joy: "For what thanksgiving can we return to God for you, for all the joy that we feel for your sake before our God, as we pray most earnestly night and day that we may see you face to face and supply what is lacking in your faith?"

It's a rhetorical question: "How can I thank God for the joy that you give me?!" We know Paul well enough by now to know that he worked harder and suffered more than most when it came to spreading the gospel. So to receive a report like this about a group with whom he had only spent a month—Paul was elated to say the least.

That wasn't all. He also said he prayed day and night that he would see them again, no doubt because of his great love for them. But also (and indeed because of his love for them) so that he may "supply what is lacking in their faith." He wanted to keep teaching them the whole counsel of God, so that they may be firmly grounded in their faith.

His love for God and his love for others is so great, that the thing that brings him the most joy is when others come to know God. Do you see that?! The question for us becomes, do we love God and others that much? That there is nothing that gives us greater joy than when we see people come to love God as much as we do?