"We had previously suffered and been insulted at Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in spite of strong opposition. For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel..." (1 Thessalonians 2:2-4a)
Entrusted. That is such an incredible word. It speaks of giving something over to the care of another. It's like saying "It is my responsibility to take care of this, and I am confident you will care for it like I do." Parents entrust their children to relatives, babysitters and teachers. Entrusting something or someone truly precious to another can sometimes be an obvious decision to make, but never one to take lightly. God does not take the gospel lightly. He chose Paul and entrusted this precious world-changing message to him, confident that Paul would commit his whole self to it.
Paul's letter to the Thessalonians speak of his heart. Not only was his message true, but his motives were pure. He was open, honest, genuine. When he faced opposition, he did not compromise the message.
Grace cannot be earned; genuine, deep trust must be.
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