Unless I get sidetracked, which is possible, this week in my devotional time, I am re-reading 1 Thessalonians, widely believed to be Paul’s first letter. This would make it the oldest of the New Testament writings. The first chapter is short, but in a certain respect seems a bit wordy. Because Paul doesn’t just write, “Dear Thessalonians.” I guess sometimes, the greeting might just be the point.
If Paul were writing emails today, they wouldn’t be the kind you skim between sips of coffee. No “Hey—quick note.” No “Circling back to see how you’re doing.” Paul is not the patron saint of brevity.
Instead, imagine opening your inbox and finding this:
“To you in Munster, Indiana (or wherever you are as you read this), loved by God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace and peace to you. I always give thanks to God for you and mention you in my prayers, constantly remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ” … and so on.
You’d probably pause. You might even wonder if he sent it to the wrong person. Work of faith? Labor of love? Steadfastness of hope? Surely this was meant for someone holier—someone who didn’t just lose their patience in traffic or forget to pray before bed.
And yet, this is exactly how Paul begins his first letter to the Thessalonians—with words of gratitude and affirmation. Before he teaches, he names grace. Before he challenges, he recognizes faith at work.
There’s something almost reassuring about it. Paul sees them not just as they are, but as who they are becoming in Christ. And that’s important for them … and us … to hear. Paul is reminding them what God is already doing because of them.
We tend to rush past introductions. We want the “main point.” But Paul lingers. He gives thanks. He remembers. He names specific “evidences” of grace in them:
Faith that works.
Love that labors.
Hope that endures.
This isn’t flattery. It’s vision. It’s the ability to look at ordinary believers and say, “God is at work here—and it shows.”
Imagine receiving that kind of letter today from someone who sees you clearly and just wants to say “Thanks” and “You’re making a difference.” Or perhaps more unsettling, imagine writing that kind of letter to someone else.
It’s easier to critique than to bless. Easier to correct than to celebrate. But Paul begins with thanksgiving because he trusts that encouragement isn’t a distraction from growth—it’s part of it.
And yes, there’s a bit of humor here too. You can almost picture the Thessalonians opening the scroll and saying, “Paul, this is lovely, but… do you ever just say hello?” Apparently not. For Paul, even “hello” is an opportunity to practice grace.
Pondering for today: If someone wrote a “Paul-style” introduction about your life of faith, what might they thank God for? And, just as importantly, who in your life needs to hear that kind of encouragement from you today?
Prayer: Gracious God, teach me to see as you see the quiet work of faith, the steady labor of love, and the enduring hope you are growing in me. Shape my words so they give life to others, offering encouragement that reflects your grace. And when I struggle to believe such things could be true of me, remind me that you aren’t finished yet. Amen.
PS – Grace and peace to each of you. I thank God for all of you and mention you in my prayers, constantly remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. Know, dear brothers and sisters, that you are loved by God and that God has chosen you. Have a blessed week.
