Scripture:
I Thess. 1:4-6
4 For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake. 6 And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit,
Observation:
Paul reminds the Thessalonians that they are loved by God, not only because of the story of the gospel they presented , but also by the power of the Holy Spirit that revealed it to them.
Application:
As we live out our calling of sharing Good News we must understand that it comes both by hearing the message and by the Spirit opening up their ears and hearts. A couple things…
-The gospel must be taught in clarity and truth. The word must be taught in order that the Word of God be clearly preached for people to hear.
-The Spirit must move! If the Spirit does not reveal it to people and does not open their ears, and their hearts, then the best presentation falls on stone.
Prayer:
Father may we remember that it is both the faithful sharing of your Word as well as the Spirit’s faithfulness in opening up the ears and hearts that leads to life change. We are reliant upon you. Our desire is not to merely present crafted presentations but also to be desperate for your Spirit to open up ears, hearts and minds.