Love That Rejoices — 1 Thessalonians 2:19–3:9
Aug 14, 2026 9
Can someone else’s faith actually become your own joy?
[19] For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? [20] For you are our glory and joy. (1 Thessalonians 2:19–20 ESV)
Although Paul was absent from the believers in Thessalonica, he had a love that rejoices in them.
He tells them that they are his hope, his joy, and his crown before the Lord Jesus at his coming.
Look what happens when he receives a good report on the progress of their faith from Timothy:
[6] But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and has brought us the good news of your faith and love and reported that you always remember us kindly and long to see us, as we long to see you—[7] for this reason, brothers, in all our distress and affliction we have been comforted about you through your faith. [8] For now we live, if you are standing fast in the Lord. [9] For what thanksgiving can we return to God for you, for all the joy that we feel for your sake before our God, (1 Thessalonians 3:6–9 ESV)
Amid his own distress and affliction, the story of their faith gives Paul comfort and joy (verse 7). So much so that he can say in verse 8, “Now we live!”
This is love that rejoices! Don’t underestimate how much your standing fast in the Lord can encourage other Christians in difficult situations.
The Good News Is…
Paul’s joy in this church points to a greater joy. Jesus is able to present us blameless before the Father’s presence with great joy (Jude 24). Our standing firm isn’t just Paul’s joy. It’s Christ’s. Our standing firm is possible because of Jesus’ work on the cross to rescue us “from the wrath to come” (1 Thessalonians 1:10).
Further reading: 1 Thessalonians 2:19-3:9
Reflection
Thank God for someone whose faith has genuinely brought you joy, and tell them.
Rev. Dave Miers
President, Good News Unlimited