Back in the New Testament time, there was a phenomenon at church where some people thought the Lord was returning soon, so there was no point doing any work. They believed that they should just simply lay down all secular affairs and just wait upon the Lord. As a result, these people did nothing in the church to help and cause an major issue. That's why in this passage Paul encouraged everyone to "settle down and earn the food they eat" and not to be "busybodies." This is an important lesson on waiting upon the Lord's return; no one knows when will the Lord return, so the best way to wait upon the Lord's return is to fulfill our duty, because that's what Jesus Christ did. When Jesus was on earth, He went to John the Baptist to be baptized. John the Baptist said: "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" Jesus replied: "it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness."
Paul also did the same. He was a major apostle who had the authority to ask the church to provide for all his needs. Paul, however, never asked the church to do so with his authority; instead, he became an example for the church by weaving tents. On the one hand he was making a living, and on the other hand he was serving the church. Many people like to wait upon God, but neglect their responsibilities in the world. Some like to hide in the mountains and stay far away from people; some like to hide in the ivory tower of church to escape from issues. The Lord's commandment, whoever, was for us to confront our issues. May God help us, let us not escape when we are encountering difficulties, but rather learn to confront them, because the Lord is with us and His presence can bring us wisdom and strength. Let us understand how to resolve our issues in life, to overcome circumstances and the enemy with the power of God. May God guide us and focus on looking upon Him; follow Him, obey Him and fulfill our duties. When we fulfill our duties, God will also fulfill His!
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