God's Glory Church

“He who calls you is faithful, He will do this!” — 1 Thessalonians 5:24

Eighteen years marked the beginning of a new period in our daughter’s life. She was now of legal age and had the right to vote in elections, and soon she was due to graduate from school. And I suddenly realized that I had very little time left at my disposal to teach her to live an independent life, manage finances, understand world problems and make wise decisions.

My sense of duty to my daughter is quite understandable. After all, I love her and want the best for her. But I also understand: although I have an important role in her life, the main thing does not depend on me. The Apostle Paul, addressing the Thessalonians – people whom he considered his spiritual children, because they heard about Christ from him, urged them to instruct one another (1 Thess. 5:14-15). However, first of all, he entrusted their spiritual growth to God. Paul believed that the Lord Himself would “sanctify them in all their fullness” (v. 23).

The apostle gave into God’s hands what he could not do himself: to prepare the Thessalonians – their spirit, soul and body – for Christ’s return to earth (v. 23). Although Paul’s letters to this church contain many different instructions, his reflections on sanctification and their readiness for eternity show that success in the lives of those we care for ultimately depends on God (1 Cor. 3:6).

How has God helped you grow in Him? Whose spiritual formation do you need to entrust to Him?

Heavenly Father, thank You for being the leader and executor of my spiritual growth. Help me to always trust You with this good work.

Author: Kirsten Holmberg