The Path of PerseveranceSample

In the first three chapters of Thessalonians, Paul takes the time and space in his letter to bring perspective to the hardships by reminding them of the truth that was brought to them and the gospel they now hold within themselves.

In these final two chapters, Paul brings the Thessalonians into an even greater perspective of what is still expected of them even in challenging times. He also addresses the pain of loss and death they experienced by introducing the eternal hope we have in Christ’s death and resurrection and, ultimately, His return. As believers, we do not die; we only sleep until we, like Christ, will be resurrected with Him on the day of His coming.

These two challenging thoughts we can be rooted in:

Therefore, anyone who rejects this instruction does not reject a human being but God, the very God who gives you His Holy Spirit. 1 Thessalonians 4:8

We cannot live holy or have eternal hope in the midst of trial if we do not rely on the Holy Spirit, who is our helper. Only by the power of the Holy Spirit can we walk in the practical call of chapter 4. Holiness and hope are unobtainable in and of themselves. These two arenas require us to abide in and live in God himself daily.

If ever there was an hour to live dependent on the Spirit, it is the one we are now in. We must no longer strive for hope and holiness out of our own strength. It will be by the Spirit that we live in the holiness He has called us to, and it will be by the Spirit that we are led to being made in the likeness of Christ until we leave this earth or until He returns.

As Paul said, our rejection of both of these truths is not us rejecting men; it is us rejecting God.

Whether it be success, failure, highs, lows, gain, or loss, we need the Holy Spirit to persevere.

1. In what areas of your life do you need the Holy Spirit's help?

Pray this: Holy Spirit, I ask You to help me. I pray my heart will be sensitive to Your leadership. I ask that You lead me into holiness and hope. I ask that You remove anything in and of myself that would want to reject Your help. Holy Spirit, reveal Jesus, who is the hope of my salvation. Help me see Him so that I can endure and make it to the end.