SANCTIFICATION
Today’s Reading: 1 Thessalonians 4-5
Click scripture link to read online or HERE to listen online (then click the symbol of the audio speaker above the scripture portion).
The remains of a fortification wall and entrance which was built in the times of the Byzantine Empire in Thessalonica. History is depicted on the walls as a reminder to all who pass through (see photo below).
GOOGLE MAPS – To see where the photo was taken, click HERE.
Key Verses: 1 Thessalonians 5:23
Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
In today’s reading Paul teaches us concerning the second coming of Christ, and instructs us as to how we should live. The word “sanctification” is repeated three times! As the vessels in the “Sanctuary” (tabernacle) were set aside for holy purposes, we are to live a holy life! Here’s how it’s done: (1) “Abstain from sexual immorality.” (2) “Love one another.” (3) “Lead a quiet life.” (4) “Mind your own business.” (5) “Work with your own hands.” (6) Act “properly to those who are outside.” (6) “Comfort one another.” (7) “Watch and be sober.” (7) Put on “the breastplate of faith and love.” (8) Put on “as a helmet the hope of salvation.” (9) “Whether we wake (life now) or sleep (death) we should live together with Him.” (10) “Edify one another.” These 10 powerful New Covenant commandments take us up to Chapter 5, verse 11.
Paul also gives us important guidance for our own lives. We will be blessed by reading again and taking time to digest excellent counsel from 5:12 to the end of the book. There are 12 more instructions here (not optional for all who are sanctified).
If Paul had a blog he would no doubt type 5:27, “I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read to all the brethren!”
Our key verse shows us how God will accomplish these things in our lives. This is a good verse to memorize! (5:23).
PRAYER FOR TODAY:
Great God of peace, I yield myself to You. I pray that You will sanctify me for Your purposes. Only You can keep me blameless; I cannot do this on my own. I thank You for working in me to accomplish Your will. In the Name of the One who always did what is right, Jesus Himself, Amen!!!
100 PERSONAL WORDS:
In the very first letter Norma-Jean wrote to me, she used letterhead with 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 printed at the top of the page: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” She claims that she did not choose this verse on purpose; it was just the writing paper at hand. However, it has proven to be a prophetic Word for us for almost 57 years of marriage!
Yours because of the One who is FAITHFUL, “Who also will do it” (verse 24 of chapter 5),
David
Some of the history of Thessalonica depicted on the structure (described in the top photo caption).
God Bless your day Rev. David in all that you do…thank you for this living manna this day and each day as you present it to us. For emphasizing the main points of this scripture making it more personal.
Thank you for the great pictures Rev. Reynold Mainse.
The “Joy of the Lord is our strength”
The blog is much appreciated! Thank you, Pastor, and all who contribute to it. It is truly a blessing, bringing the Word of God to us each day. And thanks to all who contribute through your prayers. Blessings on all of you. In Jesus’ name
Hi Susan from yesterday. I noticed you trying to post a comment and I hope I’m helping but if you TAP on the comment box the keyboard should pop up. Look forward to hearing from you! Blessings.
Thank you Very much Kathie. I just wanted to show some stars in agreement. Sure will take any tips, anytime!
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Threse are the only stars I could find. You have to look closely!
Good summary on sanctification. Have memorized the key verse. Thank you David. Have attended two anniversary parties in the last two days in our lovely new community meeting place. Also signed up again on Facebook so can share with my family and your blog David. God bless all.
Thank you David “The Joy of the Lord is our Strength”
Great lessons for today and always. Thanks Rev. M.
Love this hymn and so well sung by The Gaithers:
— https://youtu.be/RaF16IlysQc
Ooooh a beautiful hymn Lynda! Thank you. That Angela Primm has a powerful voice!!
I pray your prayer fervently David. Thank you for your beautiful blog today!
Thank You Lord that Your Cross has made us flawless!!!
Amen!
Amen and Amen.
while I was getting dressed after swimming, the young girls were talking about all the mom’s they know who have cancer! These girls are only 10 years old and they were discussing what each mom had and how harsh the treatments were! I was so overwhlemed because God removed smokes/alcohol from em 20 years ago, a friend spoke these words over me, “We have the Holy Spirit that enables us to do more than we ever dremt!” and in a flash, i threw my smokes away, into the water because we were at the beach on April 16, 1995, Easter Sunday, and this was after the service! Never had any cravings ever! So thankful to God for doing this in my life!
I pray that the Lord will heal all the moms, I pray that the moms will experience the grace and love and mercy of God, I pray that they will lead their families to know God even more, I pray that my presence at the pool will in someway be an encouragment to others.
God also gave me swimming! He took my broken leg and gave me swimming, 10 days after He removed smokes/alcohol from me! Only God could have planned this whole wonderfull happening in my life! I AM SO VERY THANKFUL AND ENJOY SWIMMING, THE VERY WONDERFUL LIFEGUARDS, THE WONDERFUL PEOLE I MEET! AND I ENJOY THE CHILDREN! Thank you Lord God, thank you, amen
Shawna, my niece just turned 49 in June. Died early Aug. 4. Have breast cancer and surgery 2 1/2 years ago. Headaches in April. Diagnosed with brain cancer, surgery early May. But the extension of her life was not to be. A beautiful spirit – a loving heart. I am conducting the Memorial Service on Sat Afternoon. She was an Elementary School teacher of grades 2 & 3. Leaves behind daughter just turned 9, two teens boy15, girl 17 and husband. Relying on God’s guidance, wisdom and street as I minister under the power of the Holy Spirit. Your prayers would be appreciated for the family and for me on Saturday. Family will be there so trust the Holy Spirit will go before opening hearts to the Light of the Lord.
Samuel