I was reading in 2 Thessalonians this morning, and began to feel convicted about being so focused on "my church".  In 2 Thess 1:3, Paul makes it clear that we ought to give thanks for those churches that are growing in the Lord.  Paul says we should.  By doing so, we are encouraged and we can encourage others (v4).

Give thanks for what?  Paul, talking to the church there, is thankful for their:
- faith that is growing abundantly
- love that is increasing
- steadfastness in the face of persecution
- steadfastness in the face of afflictions
- faith in the face of persecution
- faith in the face of afflictions

We can't give thanks for this if we don't know what is happening in other churches.  How is God blessing your church?  At Hope, we are preparing for our first two-service Sunday on Easter.  God has been changing lives, blessing us financially, and challenging us to use His provision (people, finances, physical space) more wisely.   I am so thankful for our pastors who have been faithful and sacrificial in their time and energy, and have preached God's word powerfully.  We as a church are being challenged to follow their example.  It is easy to let the staff do it all.  Please be in prayer for us as we seek to be an obedient body.

Please feel free to comment on what God is doing at your church!