He Who Laughs Last - April 24 Readings: 2 Thessalonians 1

Today’s Readings

Context

2 Thessalonians was written not long after the first letter and it continues the same themes. This book deals extensively with issues related to the end of time and the coming of Christ.

Devotional - He Who Laughs Last

Paul wrote to a people who were suffering deeply because of their faith in Christ, and he wished to encourage them by reminding them that the people who were persecuting and abusing them would not always have the upper hand. Yes, today it is often true that evil men have the power to do evil things. They can gain control of governments and businesses and work their wicked schemes successfully. But such would not always be the case, Paul assured them.

In fact, he said in verse 6, there would come a time when God would afflict the people who afflcted them. The tables would be turned. The sufferings would be exalted by God's grace and those who have inflicted that suffering would find themselves on the wrong end of the wrath of God.

They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from[b] the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might, when he comes on that day to be glorified in his saints, and to be marveled at among all who have believed, because our testimony to you was believed. 2 Thessalonians 1:9-10

Paul's message is simple. Yes, it can be hard to serve Jesus in these sinful days, but it is worth it. Why? Because these sinful days are not the end of it all. There is a day of reckoning when the glory of God is revealed and those who trust Christ and serve him will be rewarded and those who oppose him will face the horror of the error of their ways. We need only hold on and stand strong. In the end, our savior will make it worth it all

Father, when days are hard and things are discouraging, help me to remember that you will return and bring righteousness to this world. 

Think and Pray

Remember today that even when things are hard, there is a day more important than today. Jesus is coming again to bring complete justice and to reward those who serve him. He will also punish those who persecute or mistreat us. Remember this and rejoice in Christ.