Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
Life: For the Glory of God
Bible portion:1st Thessalonians Chapter 5:1-11Thessalonians 5: 9-11
9 For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. 10 He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. 11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
We are well into the new year. With a new year we are all familiar with the question,” What is your resolution”. Some may take this new year to gain a new skill, a new job or even embark on a journey of wellness. With all the hustle and bustle of life, let us take some time to reflect on the word of God to find inspiration for your new year.
Looking at the first part of the verses presented it says “For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation, through Jesus Christ”. Our divine purpose is simply presented there. Paul states that we are not to be in the depths of despair but in the eternal salvation that is offered by Jesus.
This is so that regardless of where we are “we may live together with him”. We are bound to Christ no matter what situation we are in. This echoes another verse we have heard time and time again. John 3:16 whose last part states “that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life”. This is the promise that goes beyond the limits of our understanding.
But we are not placed in this world just to hold on to that promise. We are here as God’s stewards, and he has entrusted us with a task. The last part of this passage states "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." As recipients of this divine grace, we are called to be bearers of encouragement and builders of hope. It is often said, we live in a dog-eat-dog world but that is not what Christ has called us to be. We are called to be a beacon in this world. Paul’s commission to build each other up calls upon another verse Jesus spoke in the Sermon on the Mount. We are called to be the light of the world so that “they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in Heaven” (Matthew 5:16). In a world often marked by brokenness, let us be architects of compassion, constructing bridges that lead others to the boundless love found in Christ.
So in our yearly reflection to find our new resolution, let us remember the words of Paul. Strive to bring glory to God. Seek opportunities to reflect His love and grace in your interactions with others. Build each other up by being intentional about living a life marked by gratitude, kindness, and genuine care for those around you.
PRAYER
Lord, As I look up to you for a renewed purpose, may you use me as a vessel to bring Glory to you. As I step into the world today, may Your light shine through me. Guide my actions and choices so that they may reflect Your glory, and may my life be a testament to Your love. Amen.
Thought for the Day
Let's strive to reflect the love and grace of Christ, knowing that our actions carry eternal weight.
Oshin Mathew, The Carmel Mar Thoma Church Boston
Looking at the first part of the verses presented it says “For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation, through Jesus Christ”. Our divine purpose is simply presented there. Paul states that we are not to be in the depths of despair but in the eternal salvation that is offered by Jesus.
This is so that regardless of where we are “we may live together with him”. We are bound to Christ no matter what situation we are in. This echoes another verse we have heard time and time again. John 3:16 whose last part states “that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life”. This is the promise that goes beyond the limits of our understanding.
But we are not placed in this world just to hold on to that promise. We are here as God’s stewards, and he has entrusted us with a task. The last part of this passage states "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." As recipients of this divine grace, we are called to be bearers of encouragement and builders of hope. It is often said, we live in a dog-eat-dog world but that is not what Christ has called us to be. We are called to be a beacon in this world. Paul’s commission to build each other up calls upon another verse Jesus spoke in the Sermon on the Mount. We are called to be the light of the world so that “they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in Heaven” (Matthew 5:16). In a world often marked by brokenness, let us be architects of compassion, constructing bridges that lead others to the boundless love found in Christ.
So in our yearly reflection to find our new resolution, let us remember the words of Paul. Strive to bring glory to God. Seek opportunities to reflect His love and grace in your interactions with others. Build each other up by being intentional about living a life marked by gratitude, kindness, and genuine care for those around you.
PRAYER
Lord, As I look up to you for a renewed purpose, may you use me as a vessel to bring Glory to you. As I step into the world today, may Your light shine through me. Guide my actions and choices so that they may reflect Your glory, and may my life be a testament to Your love. Amen.
Thought for the Day
Let's strive to reflect the love and grace of Christ, knowing that our actions carry eternal weight.
Oshin Mathew, The Carmel Mar Thoma Church Boston