I sent to know your faith!

1 Thessalonians 3:5
For this cause, when I could not forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain.

As a Missionary, I am expected to report the blessings, trials, and events that happen on the field on a regular basis. I realize that reporting to the Churches and individuals supporters is a way to be accountable for the financial investment we receive. I am aware that reporting what happens to us helps people be informed better to be able to pray specifically for us.

I do think that I can relate to the Apostle in this verse. I understand the need to have up to date reports from the ones whom we have an interest in. It is a rare church that reports to the missionary what is happening in their midst. We should investigate this verse closely.

For this cause:

The Apostle was very busy, he finds himself in a lot of hot water. He shows us that a partnership exists between the Churches and the Apostle. They were connected by a mutual cause. If one of the partners failed the cause would suffer beyond repair. The Apostle is reporting a factual, honest Tally of the personal affairs he is involved in. He also had a deep seated love for, and was truly desirous to hear from them.

When I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith.

The excitement is growing, There are always going to be rumors. Some rumors are good, and some are bad. Rumors can be truthful, and some out right lies. I see the effects of little news from home on the soldiers I minister to. Their mind works overtime and all kinds of scenarios develop. Most of them never materialize.

I have the same fears, I never hear from the vast majority of my supporters. I guess that is another reason for the missionary to make the rounds to supporting churches. It is so good to rehearse, to each other what is happening with our faith.

By some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain.

No minister wants to waste his time on false professions, or decisions. I for one desire to have whatever fruit I may see be the kind that remains. I think it is a good thing to trust the person that told you and trusts you to keep the faith.

Have you reported the state of your faith to those who have a vested interest?