What would you do if you knew Jesus would return later this week? Would you go to work tomorrow? Would you start calling people? Would you change your life? Would you pray all day? Would you isolate yourself? If you knew that Jesus was coming this week, why aren't you living as urgently as that?

The Word of God will never leave people neutral. Some will receive it with joy, others will resist it, and still others will oppose it. That opposition is not about you—it is about Christ shining His light through you. Never let the devil and fear set the agenda for your life. The Lord is faithful; He will establish you and keep you from evil.

Much of Paul’s instruction in this chapter centers on work. Some believers in Thessalonica had stopped working because they thought the Lord’s return meant their earthly responsibilities no longer mattered. But from the beginning—back in Genesis—work has been part of God’s good design. Adam and Eve were given meaningful labor before sin ever entered the world. Work is not a curse; it is a calling.

How many of you realize that the people you work with at your present vocation are your prayer list and your mission field? The coworkers, employees, or customers you see each day are people God has entrusted to your influence. Studies show that most people who come to Christ do so outside the walls of a church. That means your daily faithfulness may be the very witness God uses to draw someone to Himself.

So how do we live this out? Be diligent—work hard, be punctual, give thanks. Reflect Christlike character—let integrity mark your words and actions. Meet people where they are—take a genuine interest in their lives. Be a good listener—show them you care. And when the opportunity comes, share the gospel simply and compassionately.

Today, when you walk into your workplace, imagine a sign over the door: “You are entering your mission field.” May that perspective shape the way you live, labor, and love—until the day Christ returns.