Introduction:     One of the greatest lessons we learn from this epistle of Paul to the Thessalonians is to live for eternity. There was so much that could distract him from being all that God called him to be, but he didn’t live for the moment, he lived for eternity. This life is short and since we will spend more time in eternity than here, on which side of the grave will we give greater attention and energy to! The marks of a person seeking to live for eternity are seen here. A person who lives for eternity is:

I.          OCCUPIED BY THE IMPORTANT (V.17)
Focuses on relationships

            A.        Loving Relationships (17a)

            B.         Lasting Relationships (17b)

II          HINDERED BY THE DEVIL (V.18)
Hinder = to cut into, i.e. (figurative) impede, detain - hinder, be tedious unto. These attacks:

            A.        Can Be Repeated

            B.         Can Be Physical

            C.        Can Be Distractions

            D.        Are Temporary   (the devil’s hindrances are the believer’s hallelujahs)

III.               REWARDED BY THE LORD  (VV.19-20)

One day soon all believers will stand before the Lord Jesus and be judged, not for sin, but for service!

Conclusion:       The Apostle Paul’s greatest joy would be to stand before the Lord and have Him place the Crown of Rejoicing on his brow! (Ills. Bill McCartney, coach of the Colorado Buffalos saying to guest preacher … maybe we should trade places) May God give us men and women, boys and girls who will live not for the moment, but for eternity!