Devotional

“We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. 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. For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. The Lord’s message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it, for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath.” 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10

The believers in Thessalonica grew quickly in faith and it spread to neighboring provinces. They overcame their suffering with the hope of Christ Jesus, and they lived according to what they have been taught. They imitated the apostles who lived among them and became models for other believers to follow. There is something inspiring about being imitators of Jesus’ church. Just like being discipled individually, we will inherit godly character. Modeling is an essential human learning trait. Children often imitate their parents to learn and grow. It is a part of God’s design for us.

There are people in our lives that we admire, and we are encouraged to imitate them so we can inherit their character. We all model people around us, both good and bad. So why not intentionally seek those who model Christ? Similarly, we strive to become a good role model. Someone will be watching us. We do not want to become an excuse for someone to justify poor behavior. We want to accomplish God’s will. We were chosen to be His beloved followers. We don’t have to be perfect. God’s standard for us is to do the best we can in all circumstances. He will take care of the rest.

Prayer

Lord, I long to be like you. I desire to have your character, the fruit of your Spirit within me. Just as fruit mature off one another, may I grow in grace and knowledge because of those who surround me and model Christ-likeness. May I also be a model to others of your goodness. And together may we all grow to the fullness of the image of Christ.

Scripture Memorization

1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 “May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.”

Photo Credit: Bill Zielinski @zphotobc

Music Credit: Chosen – Matthew West

Devotional Written by: Sambi Katano

Prayer: Pastor Deborah Downs