1 THESSALONIANS 1:4-5

For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake.

TO PONDER

Power!? What does that mean? When St. Paul wrote to the Thessalonians, Jesus was no longer physically present to speak powerful words or exercising power in miracles that would change the hearts and minds of people. Paul was in the same situation as we find ourselves in. No visible Jesus, but still, a desire to serve the Good News.

It is that ‘deep conviction’ that Paul speaks of that is the conduit of the Spirit’s power. It is evident in our willingness to pray for people in all kinds of needs, just as Jesus did, and in our willingness to speak into the hearts of those who are ready to hear, just as Jesus did. 

This ‘deep conviction’ is trust and faith in Jesus and a belief that he is who he has proven himself to be to generations of Christians before us. God with us and God for us. The Greek word for ‘power’ here is ‘dynamis’ from which we get ‘dynamite’. The power of God is no small pop, but the big bang needed to move mountains. Do you believe? Are you deeply convicted? The Spirit within you is.

PRAYER

Come Holy Spirit, fill me with new life again today. Create in me the power to believe and to become more deeply convicted of your faithfulness day by day. Amen.

Today's devotion written by David Schuppan, LifeWay Illawarra