Sanctification Devotional

1 Thessalonians 5.23-24

Scripture: 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.

Read: It is customary for a writer to leave an impression on the reader or hearer of the word at the end. Paul is not different, at the end of his letter to the people of Thessaloniki. He gives them this final word to encourage people to focus on their potential of holiness. He is showing us that we can become more and more like Christ. The use of spirit, soul, and body was common for Paul’s writing, and every time it takes me back to the book of Deuteronomy (6.5). “Love the Lord your God with all of your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” So, we see the desired outcome, but how are we supposed to get to that place? Paul gives insight at the end of his statement. “The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.” God is the creator of all but still wants us to grow more into the image of him each day. He is the one that is shaping and molding us each day. Trust God to shape you into the person you were designed to be.

Pray: Lord, thank you for desiring a relationship with us, your creation. At times it does not make sense your love for us, but we hope to grow closer to you each day. Help to shape us into people who seek and love you. Your word tells us that you will be with us and you will do work in us. Guide us today to make decisions along the way to help us draw close to you.

Think: One is one way today that you can grow closer to God?