Scripture:
- 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5
Observations:
This is a really good passage, with some solid nuggets of wisdom.
[T]his is the will of God - Pretty self-explanatory, but it's good to see Paul reinforcing this point.
your sanctification - I could have tacked this onto the previous segment, but I wanted it to stand alone. What God desires is for us to worship him. In true genuine worship, we find ourselves becoming more like him as we discover what pleases him. Additionally, for those who believe in Christ's sacrifice, we have the holy spirit of God residing within us, urging us towards godliness.
that you abstain from sexual immorality - Paul specifically mentions this sin in particular as the first in a list comprising a good portion of a segment in how to please God.
that each one of you know how to control his own body - In a way, this falls under abstaining from sexual immorality, but it has a slight difference. Where the former is more about avoiding sin, this passage is about disciplining yourself, taking control of one's desires and urges, making them captive to the greater calling of sanctification
in holiness and honour - This is to be our mentality of discipline. Holiness, to be set apart for a divine or sacred purpose; and honour, an adherence to what is right or a standard of conduct, high respect or esteem. That is, we should be holding ourselves to a higher standard of conduct and esteem because we are to be set apart for a divine purpose.
not in the passion of lust, like the Gentiles who do not know God - Here, Paul is providing the contrast. We honour God in our sanctification away from sexual immorality towards control and holiness instead of indulging our lusts like those who do not believe in God. Note that the distinguishing factor is belief in God. There is nothing special about being a Christian or a Gentile with regards to sin except knowing God. That should tell us that God is the causative agent of such change in us.
Application:
There are two take-aways for direct application in my life.
- Do not slack in my discipline against sin
- Rely on God for my defense and offense before anything else.
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The Love Dare
Day 38: Love Fulfills Dreams
"What is something your spouse would really, really love? And how often do you ask yourself that question?"Well, that's a question I don't ask often. I need to ruminate over that one, but I know it varies, involving different acts of quality time.
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