The First Letter of Paul to the Thessalonians

This has always been one of my favorite passages of scripture. I read it this morning during my alone time, and I thought of you, so I decided to share. I Thessalonians 5:16-28

16 Rejoice always; Yes, the Bible really does say ALWAYS. Not just when we feel like it....not just when things are going "good"....not just when it's easy.....ALWAYS (Phil. 4:4; Ps. 33:1) 17 Pray without ceasing; Talking to God should be so much apart of our lives that on our every breath are praises and petitions to the Father. Our hearts should be constantly at His feet. (Eph. 6:18) 18 In everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus; You want to know God's will for your life? It's right here....to have a thankful heart. This is a command, by the way, not a suggestion. The verse says in everything give thanks. See verse 16 again for more clarification on timing.... (Ps 107, 92) 19 Do not quench the Spirit; Do not put out or stifle the Holy Spirit. What do we think that means? Some would say that this is a warning to unbelievers to "beware" of messing with the Spirit of the Lord. However, I believe that because this was a letter from Paul to the church that Paul is specifically talking to persons that are indwelled with the Spirit. He is warning us not to try to take on the roll of the HS. Yes, some are gifted with discernment and may be aware of a brewing problem - but the Spirit is the convictor of sins....yes, some are gifted in evangelism - but the Spirit draws all men to Himself....yes, some are gifted in teaching - but the Spirit gives wisdom to those that ask. I think you see where I am going. We are to be faithful servants, but we are not the King of Kings. Let Him sit on the throne of our hearts and use us as He chooses. (I Peter 3:15) 20 Do not despise prophetic utterances. 21 But examine everything carefully; hold fast to the which is good; 22 abstain from every form of evil; I think that 20-22 should really all be one verse because they are really one thought. As a Baptist, sometimes I freak-out a little bit when someone says they have a "prophetic word", and I believe rightfully so. The "freak-out" part comes, unfortunately, because all too often people say that they have a word from God when in reality they don't. With all good intentions sometimes they are simply trying to "make you feel better". The opposite of that would be with bad intent they are trying to glorify themselves or manipulate a situation. I think the key here is personally having an intimate relationship with the Father and knowing His word. If someone comes to you with a word, take it to the Father yourself. He will confirm it for you. (I John 4:1-2) Then you can tell the Baptist part of you to lighten up and dance a little before the Lord! : ) 23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Sounds easy right??? Hummmm....well...I wish! The process of sanctification is a lifelong process and boy sometimes it hurts. One day at a time...right? (Romans) 24 Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass. OHHHH, but yes that is the good part. We are not trying to sanctify ourselves. It is He who is faithful to us. (Phil. 1:6) 25 Brethren, pray for us. I love it that Paul asks for prayer. I believe prayer is the real battle ground. Our family is so grateful for the many prayer warriors that stand guard on the battle field for us. (Matt. 7:7-11) 26 Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss. We now live in a culture that a kiss on each cheek is a proper greeting. I am not a "physical touch" love language person, so I admit this has been a big adjustment for me over the past 2 years. However, I am making progress in this area, and I plan to give each of you a 'big ole smack-a-roo' the next time I see you - in the name of the Lord, of course! 27 I adjure you by the Lord to have this letter read to all the brethren. 28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. I am just following Paul's recommendation by sharing the word. Yes, may the grace of our Lord Jesus be with you!! AT