Final Instructions

I Thess. 5:17

Pray Without Ceasing

I know that when I leave for a time, I leave my husband with final instructions usually in list format: don't forget to take the garbage out, feed the dog, and at this time of year, put up the Christmas lights-- definitely things of minimal importance but things that need to be done to keep the house running smoothly. Similarly, in the book of I Thess. Paul is giving his final instructions as well, final instructions that keep the body of Christ functioning smoothly. His instructions include:

• respect those who labor in the body
• be at peace in the body
• admonish the idle
• encourage the fainthearted
• help the weak
• be patient with all
• do not repay evil for evil
• do good to each other
• pray without thinking
• rejoice always
• be thankful in all circumstances
• don't quench the Spirit
• test everything
• hold fast to what is good
• abstain from every form of evil 

As I read this list, I ask myself if these spiritual essentials are my priority.  As I live and work each day, am I thinking about these things more or less than the inconsequentials that seem to consume my daily routine? Should I make a list of these items and carry them with me or refer to them as I go through the day? Do I make them a matter of prayer asking God to give me the grace to obey?

Father,

Teach me to make these final instructions my daily instructions. Give me Your grace to live as I should. Change my heart and mind to mold to your desires so that I might glorify You.

In Jesus name,

Amen