Paul, Silas and Timothy, to the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace and peace to you. We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. We remember before our God and Father 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 sever suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. 1 Thessalonians 1:1-6

Thus begins the letters of Paul to the people of Thessalonica: Paul, encouraging new believers and assuring them the grace and peace of the Lord; reminding them that they are not alone in their faith, hope, and love of the Lord; reminding us that we are chosen to follow in Christ’s footsteps.

As I continue to grow in my Christian faith this verse is a reminder of why I do read the Bible. The lessons shared in its pages give me purpose and show me how to extend my faith through imitating the actions and beliefs of disciples of God. “. . .he has chosen you . . . not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction.” Yes, He has chosen us to be His disciples and filled us with the power of the Holy Spirit. What a glorious truth to continue to learn to share with others.

Prayer

Dear Lord, Thank You for choosing us to be Your disciples. Thank You for the words of faith, hope and love that we find in the Blble to help us grow in our Christian life. Amen.