For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. You became imitators of us and of the Lord; in spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. The Lord's message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it, for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath. 1 Thessalonians 1:6-9

Just like King Solomon’s servants made an impression on the Queen of Sheba (see Who We Are), the Thessalonian church made an impression on their whole community in the way they turned and served the true and living God.

Three things occurred that triggered the Thessalonians journey.

1. They turned to God from idols (things put before God).

2. They served.

3. They kept focus on their future Hope: the return of Christ Jesus.

That's how we come to our 'Turn and Serve' principle. Sometimes it's easy for Christians to turn and then live life waiting for Jesus to return. However, we can lose sight of the tiny word that holds so much significance and instruction for a more effective Christian life: they turned to serve.

Teaser: We read very clearly in the word of God that God's heart is not for ‘servants’ to remain servants forever—but that's a whole lot more for you to sink your teeth into! To find out more about ‘God’s ultimate plan for a faithful servant’, why don't you subscribe to our podcast?