Our Scripture reading today is 1 Thessalonians 1:1-4.
Verse 2, "We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers;"
There was a spirit of thanksgiving from Paul to the people of the church in Thessalonica and it was returned to Paul and those who served along side him. Paul was encouraged to see how they received the Word of God in some difficult situations. His letter of edification would have been strengthening and motivating to continue in what they hade been taught.
Numerous people have invested in my 48 years of life. Unfortunately, I cannot even remember all of their names. From the nurseries at Albany Baptist and Highland Park Baptist to the halls of Hyles-Anderson College and many places inbetween, there have been Godly men and women pouring into my life. I am very thankful to the Lord for putting these people into my life and I owe them all a debt of gratitude. The truths that they invested in me are the same truths I am privileged to pass on to my children, grandchildren, and those whom I have influence over.
May God help us to be thankful every day for the Pauls, Silas, and Timothy's in our lives and then may we continue to invest in the generations following us.