JUN 23

2 Thessalonians 2:15
Memorise 2 Thessalonians 2:2
“… be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.”

Today’s statement of “hold fast that which is good” from 1 Thessalonians 5:21 follows from yesterday’s passage of “prove all things”. From yesterday’s passage we learnt that we should be very careful with what is taught, to check all of it against God’s Word. After we have found that what is good, has been correctly taught and is consistent with God’s Word, we are commanded to hold fast to it. The phrase “hold fast” comes from a single Greek word meaning to hold with the hand, to retain, to grasp tightly and not let go. The thing to hold on is everything that is good. As and when we find things that are good, then we tenaciously hold on to them, whilst rejecting all the bad, sinful and wicked things.

This principle applies to all areas of our life of service. There are many things that we do, that are clearly under the category of ‘good’. For example, it is good to worship God in a faithful church, to share the gospel with the people around us, and to serve Him in whatever area we can. These things that we know are good, pleasing to God and useful to our spiritual lives, we cling tightly to, and make sure that we will keep on doing them no matter what. Thus we are to carefully examine the things that we do in our day to day lives, and constantly seek to do things that are good, edifying and a blessing to others. This is a continual process of fine-tuning in our lives. That our service to Him everyday can become more and more effective and pleasing in His sight.

What is also implied in this statement is that when we hold that which is good, we must also let go of that which is evil. In the process of proving all things, we will also realise that certain sinful desire, destructive habits or evil inclination must be put aside. In order to be an effective servant for God, we must not only constantly seek to do good, but we must also actively ensure that nothing we do are sinful in the sight of God.

If we are able to do these things, then we can go a long way towards living a life of service that is pleasing and acceptable to God. Paul encouraged the Thessalonians in 2 Thessalonians 2:15 to stand fast, and hold firm to the traditions (teachings) which they have been taught. This requires discipline, tenacity and a firm resolve. Will we pray and ask the Lord for strength to do so?

Thought: What would prevent you from standing fast for God?
Prayer: Father, give me godly courage.