Good morning. Paul tells them that he was encouraging and imploring them as a father with his own children – why? That they may walk in a manner worthy of the God who called them into His own kingdom and glory. It wasn't to lord it over them – it was for their own good. You received from us the word of God's message, you accepted it not, as the word man, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also performs its work in you who believe. This reminds us of Hebrews 4:12 - the word of God is living and active… Able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. He tells them that they are his hope and joy and crown of exultation in the presence of our Lord Jesus at His coming. Even though he went through a lot of afflictions, he was comforted about them through their faith; and that he really lived if they stood firm in the Lord. That was how he judged whether or not he succeeded – by them remaining faithful to God. It wasn't by the praise of men or signs and wonders, it was that they followed him as he followed Jesus. His prayer for them: May the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, so that He may establish your hearts unblamable in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints. Father thank You that the reader’s heart is unblamable in holiness before You. He/she excels in all things for You and walks in a worthy manner.

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