Daily Devotions
1 Thessalonians
"Always pursue what is good..."
Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:15
TWO PATHS
In life we are often confronted with two paths and we must exercise wisdom when choosing the right path. The apostle Paul showed much wisdom when he penned these words.
“See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone,
but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.”
1 Thessalonian 5:15
1. The path of evil
a) It is all too easy to walk this path of evil.
b) The word “evil” is a general word.
i) It can simply mean “a bad thing”. (Greek: “kakos”. This is the word used in this text.)
ii) It can of course be a reference to something sinister. (Greek: “poneros” often associated with the Devil.)
c) There should be no “retaliation”.
2. The path of good
a) This is the preferred choice.
b) The pursuit of that which is good is greatly enjoined.
i) Good thoughts (Philippians 4:8-9).
ii) Good examples are to be followed.
iii) Good deeds are to be done.
c) Good for yourselves.
i) This is a reference to the context of the church.
ii) Goodness ought to be sought and practised among brethren.
iii) All actions must benefit the community of the saints.
iv) Evil must never be perpetrated at any time for it would hurt the church community.
d) Good for all
i) Goodness is not to be restricted to the church.
ii) It should extend to others outside the church community.
iii) This would include non-believers.
THE PARAGON OF GOODNESS
The church must see itself as a paragon of goodness. Every effort must be made to pursue and cultivate goodness till it is the very soul and fabric of the Church! Then we truly reflect the Lord Jesus Christ!