The personal relationship Paul had with the brethren in Thessalonica was much more than just a superficial job description. He had a genuine personal relationship that was exhibited both outwardly as well as inwardly. First, Paul had an affection for the brethren like a "nursing mother" (1Th 2.7-8). Except for rare circumstances, there is not a stronger bond than a mother and child nor is there a more fearsome foe than the mother of a threatened child. Paul was bound to the brethren in heart (1Th 2.17-18) and was concerned for them so much that he thought of himself as being "torn away" from the brethren. This deep inward personal relationship was one that had to be cultivated. Paul found comfort and joy in the brethren (1Th 3.7-9). In his second letter he also couldn't help but to notice their growth (2Th 1.3) and was confident in the brethren because of this (2Th 3.4). Paul was confident enough in them to ask for their prayers (2Th 3.1). This personal relationship takes more than simple statements of fact or inward thoughts to be cultivated, but it also requires outward signs. Paul was an example to the local congregation (1Th 1.5b-7). Paul was an example first by being a fellow laborer with them (1Th 2.9), secondly by being righteous and blameless before them (1Th 2.10) and finally by recognizing their efforts on a personal (1Th 1.3).

Let us all strive to have a personal relationship with our local congregation as Paul had. 

Let your light shine!