by Pastor Ray Viola | Oct 28, 2025 | Selah
In today’s passage, Paul shifted his focus from concern to intercession. He prayed that the Thessalonian believers would grow in love and be established in holiness before God. What sets the child of God apart from the world is not superiority, but a calling to walk...
by Pastor Ray Viola | Oct 27, 2025 | Selah
After expressing his deep concern for the Thessalonian believers, Paul reminded them that trials and afflictions should not be a surprise—they are part of the Christian journey. In fact, he had warned them in advance that suffering would come. But rather than...
by Pastor Ray Viola | Oct 24, 2025 | Selah
When the apostle Paul was forced to leave Thessalonica under pressure after only a few weeks, his heart remained with the young believers he had to leave behind. Though separated by distance, he was deeply concerned for their spiritual well-being. In his first letter...
by Pastor Ray Viola | Oct 23, 2025 | Selah
The Thessalonians endured fierce persecution for their faith in Jesus, but their eternal hope in Christ gave them the strength to stand firm with joy. That same hope should stir our hearts today—not only to persevere in trials, but to boldly share the Gospel with...
by Pastor Ray Viola | Oct 22, 2025 | Selah
Paul was deeply moved that the Thessalonians received his message not as mere human words, but as the very word of God. That faith had a powerful, transforming effect—giving them strength to endure persecution with unwavering joy. Paul cherished them deeply, calling...
by Pastor Ray Viola | Oct 21, 2025 | Selah
Just as a mother helps her young child to feel secure, the cross provides believers with security and comfort. Like a father, the cross challenges us, for Jesus told us to take up our crosses and follow Him. In other words, just as a mother provides security and a...