Holiness or Bust

1 Thessalonians 4:3-8; 11-12

Paul is describing the sanctifying (or made holy) process of His people as part of God’s will. Have you ever thought that your and my transformation to holiness in Christ is actually part of God’s will? Wow, that is an amazing concept! He goes on to say that lustful passions should not control God’s people. Sinful action is always more dangerous than sinful desire, but the desire is always embryonic action. It will grow if unchecked and result in wrong actions that ultimately turn others away from God. We are to “live a holy life” (v.7) and “lead a quiet life and mind your own business” (v.11). How are we doing?

Questions for further thought:
1. In what ways have you been pursuing a Holy life? If not, what is stopping you from pursuing that life now?

2. How do you see Bible reading and prayer as integral parts of sanctification and living a Holy life? (See 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24)

Challenge: 
Take heart and pursue living a Holy life through the power of the Holy Spirit. Make Bible reading and prayer a regular part of each day and let God do a great work in you. (See Philippians 1:6)