Joel M Bradshaw

3We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing. 4Therefore we ourselves boast about you in the churches of God for your steadfastness and faith in all your persecutions and in the afflictions that you are enduring.–2 Thessalonians 1

Paul boasted about three things regarding the Thessalonians. I never recommend boasting or bragging about yourself. But imagine if these three things were boasted about you by other people?

1. INCREASING FAITH. No matter what you go through, you trust in God all the more. Every new trial and burden therefore becomes one more opportunity to depend upon God. You have become the master of telling yourself that God is both God and good. That he’s got this!
2. GROWING LOVE. You care for your church family and seek to provide for their needs. You journey with a brother or sister and in the midst of their mess, you encourage them to trust God. You serve others with a joyful heart. You are known as someone who prays for others and are genuine about how you treat them. You don’t think too highly of yourself, but live in a humble fashion among other people. Rather than growing bitter and sarcastic over time at people, you grow in forgiveness and grace!
3. ENDURING AFFLICTION. You don’t have to talk about your problems, because everyone can see that you have a difficult life. And yet your situations and burdens only highlight your smile. You give in a manner that pushes back against your pain. Your strength to endure is legendary because you never once mention it. Each new struggle provides a fresh opportunity to be grateful with God. Your reputation is one that motivates others others to be strong and not to give up. Your story naturally gives God glory, because you refuse to take any for yourself!

I want those things said about me. So I need to live a life that does them regardless if they are ever mentioned. These are counter-cultural. These will make you the best of friends and the one everyone wants to be around. These will grow you as a leader and in your influence. These are things worth looking for and boasting about in others.–JMB