By Wayne Jones, edited
I have never seen a fan chanting “We’re number 2! We’re number 2!” Everyone wants to be the
best; to always emerge victorious. Such should also be true for our daily struggle against the
forces of evil.
Satan always tries to overthrow God’s purposes. For example, in 1 Thessalonians 2:18,
Paul states, “We wanted to come to you. . . again and again — but Satan hindered us.” Satan
didn’t want Paul’s mind to be put at ease. He didn’t want the faith of the Thessalonians to be known. But his purposes were defeated by 5 principles contained in the first 5 verses of 1 Thessalonians 3. Using these same 5 principles today we can emerge victorious from every battle.
Sacrifice (1-2). Paul did not let his pride get in the way. He wanted to see them, but he was willing to alter his agenda. Sacrifice is a necessary part of any spiritually successful strategy.
Training (2). Timothy was qualified. He was Paul’s brother and God’s co-worker and just as capable for this work. We must train more people to do more work so that more can be accomplished. By training more soldiers in God’s army we can defeat Satan’s purposes.
Clarity (2-3). Timothy was not sent on a survey mission or simply as a guest preacher. He was sent to “establish” and “exhort.” Our mission and goals need to be clearly defined to achieve victory
and avoid aimlessness.
Knowledge of the enemy (4). Paul warned that persecution might come, so they knew what to
expect. Likewise, we should not be “ignorant of his designs“(2 Corinthians 2:11), his methods
have been revealed.
Motivated by love (5). Twice in this context, Paul reveals that he “could bear it no longer” not
knowing about them. His tender affection and genuine concern motivated him just like it should
motivate us.
God wants us to win and has granted us the knowledge and support necessary to do just that.