NT Fire Starters – Day 284: 1 Thessalonians 1:1-2:16

READ: 1 Thessalonians 1:1-2:16

THINK: Is your life making a mark for God on the world? Are you inspiring hope in others, or are you letting others dictate your destiny? Regardless of what you see or don’t see, one thing is certain: God is doing His part. He’s saved you, restored your purpose, given you opportunities and empowered you for spiritual success. Are you doing your part? Are you letting His joy show? Are you living worthy of identifying with Jesus? Are you relying on the Holy Spirit to help you communicate Christ’s message, not just in words but in power? This doesn’t mean that things will be easy or automatic. Remember, God’s power is most evident in the face of opposition and is best demonstrated by people who aren’t inhibited by what others may think or do.

RESPOND: In what ways are faith, love and hope crucial to your work for Christ (v. 3)? What is significant about the fact that “God has chosen you”? (See 1:4 note.) What are your responsibilities in living up to that calling? Why is it so important for Christ’s message to be conveyed not only in words, but with power? Where does the power come from, and how can you operate in this power? (See 1:5 note.) What are the effects and results of the gospel when delivered in power? How can showing joy through suffering inspire and influence others for Christ? Where does such joy come from (v. 6)? What was the great hope of the Thessalonian church? (See 1:10 note.) Why is it important for you to anticipate and rely on the same hope? What are some of the symptoms, dangers and consequences of trying to gain approval from people rather than God? (See 2:4 note.) How can you guard against this tendency? In what way was Paul’s gentleness and sacrifice an example to all Christian ministers? (See 2:7 note.) Why is it important for those who serve and minister for Christ to be “holy, righteous and blameless”? (See 2:10 note.) How can we ensure that we “live lives worthy of God”? (See 2:12 note.)

PRAY: Ask God to help you live in such a way that you can convey His message not just in words, but in undeniable power. Ask Him to help you maintain obvious joy, even through the most difficult times. Give Jesus thanks for rescuing you from wrath and giving you the hope of eternal life with Him.

ACT: Is there any issue or aspect of life in which you’re showing more concern for people’s approval than for God’s? Change your perspective and do what honors God, regardless of the fallout with people. If you have been unnecessarily harsh with someone, apologize and make the effort to demonstrate gentleness and encouragement.