“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.”
- 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 -

The end of 1 Thessalonians gives us an important teachings to Christian churches. Leaders should work diligently, caring for the flock of God and admonish them (12). And the church should honor such leaders (13). In this spiritual atmosphere, we can see the church being transformed as a fellowship where there is an encouragement, practical help and loving confrontation in patience (14-15). While we do this, we expect and hope for the work of the Holy Spirit (19). So two things are important in it.

First, Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus (16-18). Joy, Prayer, Thanks are the field where the Holy Spirit is pleased to work constantly. We should trust in His good work and we must master this life. This morning as Vision and I devoted ourselves in the morning for the 40th anniversary of our marriage, we prayed to devote ourselves in this way.

Second, sanctification. "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" (23-24). Through (complete) sanctification can be done through the work of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. In this work of the Spirit, we become like Christ and blameless on the day of Parousia - the day of our Lord's return. We pursue it and the Spirit helps us.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help us through the Holy Spirit that we may be in the process of thorough sanctification daily and be empowered to work harder for you. Praise you.