OCT 28

1 Thessalonians 1:5-10
Memorise 1 Thessalonians 1:5
“For our gospel came not unto you in word only…”

Have you heard of the phrase “Actions speak louder than words”? A good testimony is critical if one wants to be effective in preaching the gospel. The way that we live and the way that we conduct ourselves must match the message that we preach. Dear teen, by God’s sustaining Grace, we must walk the talk consistently.

Paul the Apostle, in speaking to the Thessalonians, told them that the gospel that he preached was not only in word but also in power of the Holy Spirit. This accounts for their deep conviction of their sins and their glorious salvation. This was further confirmed by the way Paul and his team conducted themselves in their midst.

Indeed the Thessalonians were witnesses of their good conduct and character. Paul and his missionary team were exemplary in their love, lives of self-denial and godliness (read 1 Thessalonians 2 to know more about Paul’s conduct amongst them) such that the Thessalonians were convinced that the truths they taught were real and true. If this was not so, Paul and his team would be exposed as hypocrites, for indeed how can we preach the forgiveness of sin, if we ourselves are still unrepentantly indulging in sin? The holy life of a Christian affirms the truths of the glorious Gospel shared. Otherwise, our bad or weak testimonies can be real stumbling blocks to others!

Dear teen, we are constantly exhorted to be doers and not hearers only. It is very sad if we hear good preaching and teaching, only to let it go right out the other ear. Take time to think, ponder and meditate on the Word of God deeply and you will glean precious truths and gems from the Scriptures to lead and guide us, as pilgrims, here on earth. Let it transform us into a more Christ-like person that God can use mightily to share the gospel with the people around us.

Thought: He, who meditatively reads the Scriptures, turns words into deeds with God’s enabling.

Prayer: O Father in heaven, help me not to be conformed to this world but to be transformed by the renewing of my mind to live to Thy praise and glory.