| Our verse to DATE the Word on February 13 (2/13) is 1 Thessalonians 2:13 |
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| 1 Thessalonians 2:13 says, “For this reason, we also thank God without ceasing because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe” |
| Offering a Warm WELCOME to the WORD 1 Thessalonians chapter 2 begins with the apostle Paul reminding them of his time with them. He reminds them how he CARED for them, and he reminds them of the CHARGE he gave them to live lives worthy of their new calling. In verse 13 he continues to remind them of his time with them, but he first commends them by giving words of appreciation. His appreciation for them is because they RECEIVED the WORD of GOD and in doing so the WORD of GOD went to WORK in them, like a seed that had been planted and was now growing and producing fruit! And they not only received the Word of God they WELCOMED it. They received the Word with great pleasure. They wanted the TRUTH. There were great expectations and excitement about hearing God’s Word. Their hearts and minds were eager to learn. What a great compliment Paul has given them. They WELCOMED the Word. Our verse to DATE gives us, most likely, a new thought for reacting and responding to God’s Word. We are to hear it and receive it and treasure it. We are to hide it in our hearts. We are to obey the Word. Here we read of a church that WELCOMED the Word. This is the only time we read of this type of response. The word “welcomed” conveys to receive with pleasure. It gives a warm reception! Just as Mary and Martha WELCOMED Jesus to their home (Luke 10:38) the Thessalonians WELCOMED the WORD into their hearts! Getting practical I ask do you have a WELCOMING spirit for hearing and learning God’s Word? Do you offer a warm reception to the Word of God? How excited are you to hear God’s Word taught? Can your pastor or Bible study teacher feel a sense of anticipation from your spirit as God’s Word is being opened and taught? Do you have an eagerness to read God’s Word for yourself? Would you describe yourself as one who is WELCOMING to the Word? Would others describe you as a person who is WELCOMING, receiving with pleasure, the Word of God? Our verse also reveals the great WORK the Word does. The Greek word for work here gives us our English word energy. The Word of God is energy in us and the energy (work) transforms. When received and applied the Word of God goes to work CHANGING US. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Let us take to heart 1 Thessalonians 2:13 and RECEIVE the WORD, and even more so, WELCOME the Word, for as you WELCOME THE WORD, the WORD goes to WORK! Verse to DATE the Word on February 13 (2/13) is 1 Thessalonians 2:13. It says, “For this reason, we also thank God without ceasing because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe.” Continue Strong with a warm, welcoming heart to the Word of God, And remember to DATE THE WORD |