Quiet Life Of Love

Writing to the Thessalonians, Paul highlights an important mark of Christian living: love for one another. In 1 Thessalonians 4:9-10, he commends the Thessalonian believers for their brotherly love, urging them to continue growing in this love more and more. While he acknowledges that they already understand the importance of love, he provides further guidance that illustrates what this love looks like in action. It is good for all of us to be reminded of practical ways to express love within the church and to those outside the church.

One of the primary ways Paul teaches us to show love is through the pursuit of purity. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8, he addresses the issue of sexual immorality. When we maintain sexual purity, we demonstrate love for others by honoring marriage and not leading others into temptation. By refraining from sexual immorality, we protect our own hearts and the hearts of others, thereby exercising a form of love that values the well-being of others above selfish desires. In the culture that the Thessalonians lived in, and in present times, this call to avoid the acts of the flesh also comes with a warning.

“Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.” (Galatians 5:19-21)

Paul’s guidance doesn’t stop there. He also calls Christians to “And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business” (1 Thess. 4:11). A seemingly simple command that has profound implications for how we love those around us. Living quietly means striving to be at peace with others and avoiding unnecessary conflicts. By minding our own business, we resist the temptation to meddle in the lives of others, respecting their privacy and autonomy. These behaviors reflect a spirit of humility and gentleness that contributes to a peaceful and loving community.

In the broader context of Greek literature, the phrase “live quietly” is often used to encourage individuals to avoid being troublemakers in society. Paul, too, seems to echo this sentiment. He urges Christians to be good neighbors, not stirring up trouble unnecessarily. This doesn’t mean that believers should shy away from addressing sinful practices or injustice. Scripture clearly calls us to “but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God” (Micah 6:8). However, in a world that often seems to “seek out conflict for conflict’s sake”, we are to refrain from such behavior. Our love for others should be evident in our efforts to live peaceably and avoid causing strife.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

In addition to living quietly and minding our affairs, Paul encourages the Thessalonians to work with their hands (1 Thess. 4:11). This instruction is significant for several reasons. It appears that many in the Thessalonian church had stopped working because they expected the imminent return of Christ. Believing that the world was about to end, they may have reasoned that continuing in their jobs was pointless. Paul, however, emphasizes the importance of labor, reminding them that even as they wait for the Lord’s return, they should continue to work diligently. (v 12)

Why does Paul place such emphasis on working and living quietly? The answer lies in the impact these behaviors have on our witness to the world. When we work hard and mind our own business, we show love to others by not becoming a burden on them. This allows the church to focus its resources on those truly in need. As we live in peace and diligence, we gain the respect of outsiders, and our lives become a testimony to the transforming power of the gospel. To “That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without” (1 Thess. 4:12), reminds us that our conduct has the potential to influence how others perceive Christ.

Living a life of quiet love and diligent work is not just about fulfilling obligations; it’s about honoring God with our daily choices. These actions are not only ways to love others but also ways to glorify God.

What then? Live a life of purity in mind and deed. As we are commanded to live peaceably, pursue that with all our hearts. If we can work, let us work faithfully. In doing so, our lives bear witness to the gospel so others will see the hope that we have. Trust that God will use our quiet lives of love to draw others to Himself.


Credit: Ron Kelley