Bible Study & Devotional 282

Guiding Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 1:3 ‘We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.’

🔴 Joyful Reception

written by: Torrie Slaughter

As we begin reading the letter to the Thessalonians, I encourage you to go back to read Acts 17:1-9. In Luke’s account, he records Paul’s second missionary journey. Paul succeeded in converting many Thessalonians to Christianity. However, change brought about jealousy and division. There were many Jews that accused Paul of promoting Christ above Caesar. Paul left the new believers behind to continue spreading the Good News. 

3 Christian Graces

Faith, love, and hope are often linked together in Paul’s letters. The Church at Thessalonica received the Gospel in a manner worthy of honor. (1 Thessalonians 1:13)

What an incredible example for us! Even when all seems off-balance and you suffer for working for Christ, it is not in vain. Our Heavenly Father sees our faithfulness. Throughout this letter, we understand how the power of the Holy Spirit convicts and strengthens. 

Manifestation

The Thessalonians chose Jesus in a culture that celebrated worldly success. (1 Thessalonians 1:1-5) The powerful effects on their hearts and lives sustained a new church. They became the influencers of their time.

When you’re praying and asking for direction, I hope you will allow the impactful walk of holiness to lead you. While we wait for Jesus to return, we can labor in love, endure suffering, and be inspired. 

Prayer: ‘Help us, God our Savior, for the glory of your name; deliver us and forgive our sins for your name’s sake.’ (Psalms 79:9) May we always joyfully receive your Word, and may it penetrate our hearts. Amen. 

🔴 The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan

Saturday, October 9, 2021

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Bible Study & Devotional 279

Guiding Scripture: Colossians 2:8 ‘See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.’

🔴 The Enemy of the Mind Part 2

written by: Torrie Slaughter

Today’s reading connects many thoughts and ideas and ultimately points to Christ as our Savior and Lord. From Jeremiah, Psalms, and Proverbs, we watch the story guide us into the right relationship with God. 

We know what we should be aware of and how different philosophies, cultural pressure, and family tradition pull us away from God’s purpose. 

Matthew 7:15 Jesus told the disciples, Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but they are ravening wolves inwardly.

The Apostle Paul continues this teaching and reminds the Colossians that the Lord is Sovereign over every power. Anything that tries to lure you away from His Truth is overcome through the circumcision of our hearts (Colossians. 2:11). We will protect the thoughts when we recognize that the enemy or ‘principalities’ are after our minds. 

How do we use God’s Truth as a weapon and place of refuge? 

By remembering:

1. God gave Jesus authority over all the elements of the earth, wind, water, and fire. (Colossians 2:8)
2. Human tradition does not equal righteous living. Philosophy is the love of wisdom; however, without God, no one fully understands.  (Colossians 2:8)
3. We have a new life in Christ Jesus. (Colossians 2:11-14)
4. Jesus is the Conqueror of principalities and powers. ( Colossians 2:15)
5. Christ is Lord over all things, including food, beverage, and holidays. (Colossians 2:16-17)
6. The warnings. Those who use earthly wisdom are unspiritual and cause division. (Colossians 2:18-23)
7. We are not subject to the ‘I can’t’ mentality and are free in Christ if we believe. (Colossians 2:20-22)

I pray as you consider these truths when you are battling doubt, uncertainty, or people-pleasing. May we all love God, ourselves, and others through the lens of the Cross.

🔴 The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan

Wednesday, October 5, 2021

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