I Thessalonians 5:23
“But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good;”
To “hold fast” takes effort and attention. I’m reminded of the one at the wheel of a ship. He must continue to keep watching the compass and correct accordingly. If his focus is diverted for a period of time, the ship will go off course. If he never refers to the compass, he won’t reach the desired destination.
What is the good we are to hold fast to? We must put time and attention into our faith. If we don’t, we may not be a christian. James says in his letter that “faith without works is dead” (2:26). To be strong in the faith, we need the essentials: the bible, church and fellowship, prayer and service. These aren’t just beliefs to adhere to, but a relationship to foster.
When we come to Christ, we get the primary structures in place: the bible, church,fellowship, prayer and service. These are like the rough changes a sculptor might make. The fruit of the Spirit are the fine changes, like the artist making warmth lines around the eyes. These take the rest of our lives.
I want to focus on these fine changes, the fruit of the Spirit. These are “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control, against such things there is no law”, Galatians 5:22,23
Being a Christian means we submit to Christ’s lordship. As we go throughout our days we encounter difficulties. The Spirit impresses on us how we are to be. It seems to come down to being patient and loving. We would like things to go smoothly. However, that isn’t always the case. We need to release control. There tends to be a current that puts us in particular circumstances. I’m not referring to moral or immoral ones. They are just circumstances. We need to look godward in these times. We ask, “Lord, I trust You to guide and equip. Give me the strength to endure and be loving.”
Lord, thank You for the bible, church, fellowship, prayer and service. Thank You, also for Your guidance. Help us to hold fast to these things