Sometimes as we read Scripture, we may think that the exhortations are either
impossible or extremely difficult to perform. Such a perspective comes particularly
easy when we read Paul’s pastoral epistles.
To the Church at Thessalonica, the Apostle encourages a lifestyle of
edification (5:11-22). It is fairly easy to comprehend his reasoning, if not
the realities of such a lifestyle. It would lead one to accept a “works-righteousness”
theology, which would be a grave mistake.
If, however, we don’t throw up our hands in despair, but keep reading to
the end of the chapter, we discover that Paul recognizes our need for specialized
assistance to perform the sort of lifestyle he teaches.
That specialized assistance comes from God himself. Paul assures his
readers that “the God of peace” both can and will completely “sanctify” them.
In addition, the same God of peace will preserve the “whole spirit, soul and
body” in a blameless state right up “to the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.”
What a marvelous relief! We don’t have to do it ourselves. Of course, that
doesn’t mean we can be “idle” or lazy (5:14) about what Scripture teaches us to
do. Yet, “the God of peace” is our transformer. He completes the transformation
that our practice can’t, because “the one who calls you is faithful.” And in
his faithfulness to his called ones, “he will do it” -- complete the
sanctifying and preserving process.
Dear Father, thank you for calling us, sanctifying us and preserving us.
Empower us to obey all that Scripture teaches and trust your faithfulness. This
I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be strong and courageous today in your practice of Scripture,
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