Have the same desire

I Thessalonians 2:4 “…we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel.  We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts.”  Your and my priority should always be to serve God and listen to His absolute truth.  What does God say about divorce, abortion, greed, alternate life styles, forgiveness, eternal life or any other issue.  Man’s opinion is totally meaningless when God presents His truth.  What kind of car to drive is not determined by God, but managing finances is.  What day of the week and what time to worship is not dictated by God, but worship and studying His Word certainly is.  If God speaks, we listen.  Amen

Rejoice in suffering?

I Thessalonians 1:6 ” You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit.” A Christian’s life is both peaceful and is just the opposite.  Perfect peace is a promise from our God for our soul while terrible turmoil is promised in life for our body.  Ever since the fall in the Garden of Eden this dichotomy became real.  Not because of God for He is love and is perfect, but rather, because of our own sinful nature.  This two fold life makes for a long discussion, but for here:  expect both peace and expect turmoil.  Develop a strong and steadfast relationship with your Savior.  Study Scripture.

God’s amazing love

I Thessalonians 1:4 “For you know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction….” You and I are incapable of truly realizing the benefits of the Almighty God loving us.  Given all of our disobedience, it is amazing that God even desires to have anything to do with us.  For you and me to daily be blessed because of His love is something which motivates each of us to act as most appreciative adopted children of His.  Doing good works is the least we should do as our Thank You to our Savior.

work-faith; labor-love; endurance-hope

I Thessalonians 1:3 “We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” Three qualities of every conscientious Christian are faith, love and hope.   These qualities are evident in a Christian’s life by his/her actions (works), efforts to help others (labor) and a never give up (endurance) mentality and effort.  Would those who know you say you possess the above and could state why you possess this lifestyle?  Is faith, love and hope what is evident as your/my motivation? 

Valuable friends

Ephesians 1:2 “We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers.” One of the most dangerous activities a person prone to any addiction is to isolate.  To lack the companionship of others causes anyone to dwell on all the negatives life offers.  If one wants to do well there must be a relationship with others who desire to serve their Heavenly Father and help others to enjoy the success our God blesses us with.  If we do find ourselves alone at times, the MOST valuable activity any of can do is talk with our Savior.  

Be wise

Colossians 4:5 “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.” Never stop praying for wisdom.  Never act any other way than exposing the truths of grace.  Never be anything other than humble.  Always know you represent your Savior.  Always be thankful for the blessings you enjoy daily.  Always read, study and apply the absolute truths of the Bible for therein we all find both temporal and eternal life.