Reinforced Steel

Scripture:

When the Message we preached came to you, it wasn't just words. Something happened in you. The Holy Spirit put steel in your convictions.

1 Thess 1:5

Observation:

In verse 5, Paul sets forth the reason he knows those in the Thessalonian church are elected. He says, "for our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; just as you know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake." Paul calls it, "our gospel." The gospel is always intentionally personal to Paul. He doesn't mean that it is his private possession, or that it originated from him. He simply means that it was the gospel that he preached. This is the message that Paul had committed his life to, and trusted for his eternal salvation, and this was the message that he proclaimed to the Thessalonians.  Paul freely admits that it was Holy Spirit’s work within that made the difference. Holy Spirit is at work within each believer to make the difference.  Just like reinforced steel- he brings a sturdy, strong assurance of our convictions; of our faith. He produces a "full assurance" or "full conviction" as he operates in our lives.

Application:

God doesn't want us to be like reeds blowing in the wind. He wants us to have full confidence and assurance regarding our position in Christ. The Holy Spirit would reinforce our convictions with steel.  At times, there is a big gust of wind and I can reconsider my convictions. This occurs when I question and doubt my position in Christ. It’s when as I allow Holy Spirit to remind me that I am His child, His Ambassador, His Friend; that I recollect the steel that is placed in my convictions.

Prayer:

Father, I love that you keep reminding me about who I am in you. I know you know I need to be reminded. Cause it is like steel reinforcing a structure against destruction. Protect my mind and heart against the darts of the enemy. Thank you for surrounding me with your very presence. Amen.

 

Hayley