1 Thessalonians 1:5
“because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power, in the Holy Spirit, and with great conviction—just as you know we lived among you for your sake.”
A saint of the historical church once said, “preach the gospel, if necessary use words.” This has an unexpected ending. What’s anticipated was confidence, power, grace and more. It’s saying our lives should be God’s best message. In today’s passage Paul is saying that they lived the gospel.
Jesus said in Matthew 5:14-16, “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a basket. Instead, they set it on a lampstand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
We don’t have to be perfect, just to be obedient to the Holy Spirit as He seeks to work in our lives. Galatians 5:25 says, “Since we live by the Spirit, let us walk in step with the Spirit.” I attempted to scour my life of imperfections at a stage in my walk with Christ. It was overly stressful. That’s not what God was looking for. He wants us to respond to the nudges He gives us.
The Lord will put us in a circumstance in which we are look to Him for help through it. He helps us and this trust causes growth on all fronts. This is what the message of our lives is to be. It’s a peaceful yielding in all circumstances. Circumstances may be tough, yet as we learn to trust Him, it ends well. This gives others hope. God isn’t harsh or demanding, but graceful and wants to be with and help everyone.
Lord, thanks for Your Holy Spirit who is with us always. Let our lives be a good message of You.