Daily Reading 7-3-17
1 Thessalonians 4:9-12a Living Bible (TLB)
I want to thank the leadership of Connect2Christ Church, as well as the membership at large in how they have loved me and my family especially this past year. Loving and caring for my Mom has been and continues to be a great honor; it also consumes much of my time and energy. Although we are home, I am taking this week to rest and enjoy some time with John as we celebrate our 39th wedding anniversary.
How Christians actively love one another is a big deal with our Father; because Father God is Love. As His children we are to exemplify His holy character in how we display our love and concern for one another. We are to be a positive force in society; acting independently in the liberating love the Spirit of the Lord brings us.
In our lesson this morning, the Apostle Paul is writing to the Church at Thessalonica to remind them of the importance of being responsible in every area of life. It is a developmental journey of allowing the Holy Spirit to make us good examples of how grace and love are operating in our lives. The results should be that others who do not know the love of God, will see it in action and desire a relationship with God, as well. Every day we should honestly examine our love walk to make sure we are living in the character, integrity, and moral courage provided to us by the Lord.
9 But concerning the pure brotherly love that there should be among God’s people, I don’t need to say very much, I’m sure! For God himself is teaching you to love one another. 10 Indeed, your love is already strong toward all the Christian brothers throughout your whole nation. Even so, dear friends, we beg you to love them more and more. 11 This should be your ambition: to live a quiet life, minding your own business and doing your own work, just as we told you before. 12 As a result, people who are not Christians will trust and respect you;
Prayer: Lord, your love is perfect and all consuming. Help me to love as you love and to be responsible in every area of my life. Thank you for this time of rest and recuperation. Thank you for the love of my spiritual family. In Jesus’ name. Amen.