2 Thessalonians 3:3, “But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.”
Paul uses the word “But” in the beginning of verse three. “The Cambridge Dictionary states that we use but to link items which are the same grammatical type. But is used to connect ideas that contrast.” Paul had just stated that not all have faith. He contrasts how the unbelievers lack of faith is in contrast to God’s faithfulness in guarding them against Satan’s schemes of attacking them (Luke 22:31-32). In Jesus’s High Priestly prayer in John 17:5, Jesus prayed “ . . . keep them from the evil one.” The Lord is faithful in His protection, provision, and presence. Think about how God has God demonstrated His faithfulness to you recently, and in the past.
When we see God’s faithfulness in action, it confirms, strengthens, brings about, fulfills, executes, puts in place, and validates God’s character. It establishes us to stand strong and to stand firm. Acts 3:16 states, “And his name – by faith in his name – has made strong.” Then in Romans 16:25, Paul summarizes, “Now to him who is able to strengthen you” and in 1 Thessalonians 3:13, “establish your hearts.” Then in Colossians 2:7, we read, “Rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.”
When I successfully handle a problem within my job or acquire new business, it helps establish my role and reputation within my industry and acquiring my personal sales goals. Training in sports requires hard work, endurance, and stamina to become stronger and more physically adept at winning. An established athlete’s training goals help push them to a whole new level. Achieving success takes effort and determination to boost their confidence in upcoming competitions. Think about the word “establish.” How is God establishing you in your role within your family, friends, ministry, and work? Who is God using to help nurture and come along beside you? Who could use your wisdom and knowledge learned to coach or mentor? Do you realize you have influence right where God has placed you?
We all fail many times. But God is faithful, and we can have confidence in His presence, protection, and provision. Keep on being “steady and determined in your faith despite all the hard times that have broadsided you.” 1 Thess. 1:3 MSG. Live in the light of Christ’s return. Are you finding yourself in a “but God” moment that you are experiencing out-of-control harsh circumstances? Are you praying for a breakthrough? Keep a journal of your thoughts. Write down all the impossibilities and hand them over to God. Right here is an up-and-coming “But God” moment. God wants obedience even when we don’t get it. He wants us to trust Him and live out Hebrews 11:6, “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” God is in control, and He is faithful. Remember how He remembered Noah and saved his family and animals in the ark during the flood, parted the Red Sea, calmed the storm with the waves going over the boat (Matt. 8:24-26), and protected Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego? God wants obedience and for us to act on whatever amount of faith we have. No matter what is going on, remember “But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.” 2 Thess. 3:3.
Listen to We Are Messengers Faith Sees Best In The Dark (Official Lyric Video) October 14, 2021.