Sermons You Give and Receive | Dear Church

We all preach sermons, whether we realize it or not. Maybe not from a pulpit, but through our words, our advice, and how we live. We preach to our kids, our friends, our coworkers. And whether we like it or not, people are listening. That's why Paul, in 1 Thessalonians 2, gives us some clear guidelines on how to share truth and how to receive it.

He starts by reminding the church in Thessalonica that their faith isn't just about words—it's about action. He commends them for their work of faith, their labor of love, and their patience of hope. In other words, real faith takes effort, real love requires sacrifice, and real hope means holding on even when things get tough.

It's not just about the sermons we give—it's about how we receive truth as well. Paul praises the Thessalonians for accepting the Word of God as truth, believing it, and applying it. It's not enough to just hear a good sermon—we have to let it change us.

So here's the challenge: next time you're about to share truth with someone, ask yourself if it's what God would want you to say, if your motives are right, and if you're coming from a place of love. And next time you hear a sermon, don't just listen—accept it, believe it, and apply it. That's how real transformation happens.

Pray With Us!

Lord, help us to be mindful of the words we speak and the truth we share. Give us wisdom to know when to speak, humility to check our motives, and love to guide our conversations. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Let's Reflect:

When was a time you spoke truth to someone—did you check your motives first? How can you be more intentional about applying God's Word in your daily life? What is one area where God is challenging you to grow in faith, love, or hope?