Day 285

Jeremiah 19:1–21:14; 1 Thessalonians 5:4-28; Psalm 82:1-8; Proverbs 25:9-10

TODAY WE CONCLUDED Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians. Typically in Paul’s letters, he offered a series of concluding characteristics or postures. In doing this, he hoped that the congregations would clearly see what a transformed life should look like.

We don’t always approach these little lists correctly. We can read a list of postures from Paul and then try to turn it into an action plan or recipe rather than understanding that he is offering a picture of what will be natural for us as we embrace our new nature.

With that in mind, let’s look at the postures Paul encouraged the Thessalonians toward:

• “Honor those who are your leaders in the Lord’s work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance.” (1 Thessalonians 5:12)
• “Live peacefully with each other.” (1 Thessalonians 5:13)
• “Warn those who are lazy. Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak.” (1 Thessalonians 5:14)
• “Be patient with everyone.” (1 Thessalonians 5:14)
• “See that no one pays back evil for evil.” (1 Thessalonians 5:15)
• “Always try to do good to each other and to all people.” (1 Thessalonians 5:15)
• “Always be joyful.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16)
• “Never stop praying.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
• “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
• “Do not stifle the Holy Spirit.” (1 Thessalonians 5:19)
• “Do not scoff at prophecies, but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good.” (1 Thessalonians 5:20-21)
• “Stay away from every kind of evil.” (1 Thessalonians 5:22)

Rather than looking at this list for ways in which we are failing, we should see what we are becoming. This is what comes naturally to a transformed person —and transformation is a process.

If you see areas on this list that do not describe your life, then you are simply discovering areas that are in the process of being sanctified. The only person who can ultimately interfere with this process is you. Invite the Holy Spirit into those areas and begin to consciously turn to God rather than embracing old habits.

BENEDICTION:

Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. God will make this happen, for he who calls you is faithful.