Good Work - Day 13

Day 13 - Wednesday, October 2
Read 1 Thessalonians 4

Highlight
Each church or person Paul writes a letter to is going through different situations. Yet, Paul is often telling them similar things. Each of his letters carries the similar principle - as you are now under the authority of the Lord Jesus, live that truth (vv 1-2). Being under the authority of Jesus means you live your life according to His example - meek, humble, serving others. Often the loudest voices are heard most. It seemed to be the reality in Paul’s day and it is often the reality in our culture today. But, Paul tells us in this chapter that we should “make it your ambition to lead a quiet life…so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders” (vv 11-12). What if as followers of Jesus, we lived and worked in a humble manner that served others. Not just when it was easy or convenient, but at all times.

Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method.  It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer.  We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading.  It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal.  But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.

S.O.A.P. Method

Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal.  Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.”  What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?

Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage.  What is this passage or verse saying?  About God?  About people?  How is Jesus revealed in these verses?

Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life.  Is there truth about God that you are to believe?  A promise to receive?  Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth?

Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture.  This is a way to turn God’s Word to you back to Him.  Be honest and express your heart to Him.  God always listens and He delights in your prayers.  (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8)
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