Bible Chapter: I Thessalonians 1

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    This is a letter written to a young church.  And yet, they were doing many things well.  Paul expressed appreciation for their faith.  He encouraged them that they were serving the Lord in spite of the persecution that had happened.  Even as young believers they had become a model of what the Christian life looks like.  They were looking forward to the coming of Jesus.
    They had heard the preaching of Jesus under the anointing of the Holy Spirit.  They were continuing to live in the power of the Spirit.  They had a deep conviction of belief.  They fully believed the message they heard that changed their lives.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    The Fruit of the Spirit was growing in their lives.  They were growing in the joy of the Lord, in spite of the persecution they suffered.  Paul’s ministry there was prematurely cut short because of the persecution.  The young church did not let this cause them to give up, but they stuck strong with the Lord and their service for Him.
    They were waiting for the return of Jesus.  Yes, it has been 2,000 years and the church is still waiting.  I need to remember that this is just a few days in the light of eternity.  This is the great hope we have, that we will one day be with Jesus.  He will come and take us to be with Him.  So, I must remain faithful till that day comes.

3.  How can I help someone?
    We really do have hope.  There are periodic tragic events that happen.  As I write this there are multiple tragedies that have just happened.  This could be said almost any day.  These kinds of events cause people to question what is going on.  Many don’t have hope any more.  But, in Jesus, we really do have hope.  I can help people see that.