A Pregnant Path

July 9, 2021

Scripture Resource Passage: 1 Thessalonians 5

Expectant women know that on a certain day—a delivery is coming. The precise hour of the clock, the bursting of new life, is typically an educated estimation. Pregnancy leads to labor and delivery, and hopefully abundant life.

Words of promise surround the events of Christ’s promised return.“While people are saying, ‘Peace and safety,’ destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman…”(1 Thessalonians 5:3).

Without personally experiencing pregnancy, or labor pains, the Apostle writes as if he has been up close. He chooses the image of the upcoming onset of birth’s labor for a figure of speech, in explaining the timing of Christ’s return. 

Paul possesses an authorized understanding of Jesus’ imminent return. Consider Jesus’ true words which can be found in Revelation 16:15: “Look, I come like a thief!” Paul emphasizes, in writing to the disciples of Thessalonica, this certain-suddenness of Christ’s return.

I have watched as my family traversed the pregnant path of labor and delivery. I number these among the most amazing experiences of my life. 

Now with deep anticipation, while hearing the pregnant laboring groans of all creation, alongside other disciples I await Christ’s return. The honest and fervently intense screams of church and society increase my anticipation. Come quickly Lord Jesus—we await your day.

Life Applications

• When does life feel most secure to you?
• When do you experience safety?
• In what ways do you hear creation’s pains of labor?

I look forward to reading your comments and suggestions.