For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord.
1 Thessalonians 3:8 NIV
Standing Fast
Canadian athletes stood on the Olympic platform more times at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics than at any time in non-boycotted games history – 27, to be exact. The previous record was 24, set in Tokyo three years previously. Canada also captured a non-boycotted Summer Games high of nine gold medals, two more than in Tokyo and Barcelona in 1992. Canada finished 11th overall in the medal standings, the same spot as Tokyo. The United States led the way with 126 medals, 35 more than China.
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I love talking to people who are growing in their faith, deepening their knowledge of God’s Word, and loving Jesus more and more as they mature spiritually. They are such an encouragement to this seasoned – read older – follower of Jesus who continues to fall more deeply in love with the Lord Jesus. Paul puts this clearly in 1 Thessalonians 3:8, as he thinks about the believers in that Greek city: “For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord.” He’s pointing to the deep, soul-satisfying joy that comes from seeing others rooted in Christ. There’s a profound connection between the health of our hearts and the faithfulness of those we love in the Lord. Paul’s joy wasn’t dependent on circumstances or personal comfort; it flowed from knowing that God’s work in the Thessalonians was real and enduring. Our spiritual strength is also intertwined with the perseverance of others in the faith. Today, let’s take a moment to celebrate the faithfulness of others. Encourage someone. Pray for them. Rejoice in their growth. Your heart will be strengthened as you witness God’s work alive and active. For in their steadfastness, we truly live.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley