The Command To Avoid Distractions
1 Thessalonians 4:11 says, “And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;”
Paul praises the Thessalonian believers regarding their demonstration of “brotherly love” (v. 9). However, they seem to be distracted and needed to “increase more and more” (v. 10), not just spiritually but also in numbers when they proclaim the gospel! As God’s children, we can encounter various influences around us that could challenge our faith (Rom 12:2). They may come from worldly trends, culture, entertainment, or even peer pressure (Eph 5:6). But God calls us to focus our lives “unto Jesus” (Heb 12:2).
When we “seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness” (Mt 6:33), we can avoid the distractions of these modern ideas (Col 2:8). We must be watchful always by standing firm on our faith (1 Cor 16:13). If we are faithful in smaller tasks, the bigger tasks will be much simpler (Lk 16:10). And when we follow the three simple guidelines that Paul gave in our text, it would help simplify any difficulties that we may face in life. First, we must “study to be quiet” – not just with our lips (Prov 17:28), but also in our actions through a “a meek and quiet spirit” (1 Pet 3:4).
This character trait must be studied, because we are often hasty in speaking what’s in our minds (Prov 29:11). It would be wise for us to do more (Prov 10:19), and speak less! Second, we must “do our own business,” or stop meddling in a dispute (Prov 26:17), or affairs (2 Thes 3:11), of others. We would do well to simply focus on our own spiritual growth (2 Pet 3:18), and soul-winning (Prov 11:30). Finally, we are to work with our “own hands,” by learning to be industrious and not be lazy (Prov 6:6). When we work with our hands (Ecc 9:10), we should always give our very best to God (Col 3:23)! Our Lord Jesus saved us so we can be His “ambassadors” (2 Cor 5:20), to point others to His saving grace! God bless you!
- Pastor Melito Barrera
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