Proverbs 21 and 22 continues in the same vain as the other chapters of proverbs. We see a pattern developing of the kind of person who “fears the Lord” as Proverbs puts it, in other words, one who has a reverent regard for the Lord’s ways and commands. This person pursues righteousness and justice; is generous to the poor and oppressed; speaks kindly and purposefully; works steadily and saves earnings worships God in action not just in words; welcomes God’s discipline and learns from it; is slow to anger, thinks things through before acting and seeks God’s direction. This person will have God guiding life’s path.

In 1 Thessalonians 3 Paul presents his concern for the church while he was being persecuted, but his joy in learning of their faithfulness. This is the most personal letter yet that we have read from Paul to one of the churches. Paul genuinely loves these people and deeply desires to see them once more in person.