As we continue studying 1^st Thessalonians 2, let me remind you of what we found so far in this chapter.  The teachers or mentors God wants us to have should demonstrate good character and exhibit genuine compassion – “like a mother caring for her little children.”  Without that kind of help it’s difficult to grow and mature as a Christian.  In fact, you’re vulnerable to being led astray and possibly shipwrecked. 

Paul adds one more quality to look for in Christian teachers or mentors.  Do they show commitment, like a father in dealing with his own children (verse 11)?  He reminds them that God was a witness, even as they were, “how holy, righteous and blameless we were among you who believed.”  God tests motives.  Men judge actions.  Their commitment was seen in the way they lived. 

First they lived a holy life.  According to one commentator this probably refers to religious purity.  He adds to this, righteous, which probably refers to moral integrity.  These two qualities are followed by the word, blameless.  This has the idea of being above reproach.  Like fathers before their children these qualities provided authentication and authority to their instructions and expectations.  A godly father would encourage, comfort and urge his children to “live lives worthy of God (verse 12).  If you have friends like this in your life be sure to thank them, and thank God for them.