Listen

God called all of you through our good news so you could possess the honor of our Lord Jesus Christ. So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold on to the traditions we taught you, whether we taught you in person or through our letter.

2 Thessalonians 2:14-15

Think

When I was younger, I read Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s The Cost of Discipleship. I fell in love with the book and with this great mind that had produced it. I wanted to read more of Bonhoeffer’s work, so I moved on to the more mature writings that he produced in later life. Soon, these later works became my go-to books. I went years without ever picking up The Cost of Discipleship again. Recently I had the experience of going back to it. It was so refreshing and inspiring to go back to my “first love,” and to remember why I was originally so captivated by Bonhoeffer.

In today’s scripture, the author reminds the Thessalonians that personal preaching is what first drew their hearts to the glory of God. Remaining faithful to that is what will help them stay engaged with God.

What was it about the Christian life that first captivated your heart? You may have grown into a more mature believer since, but remaining faithful to that first call can be an important way of remaining grounded in God.

Andrew Garnett

Pray

God, help me to remain faithful. Though I have grown and changed, sharpen my mind so that I do not forget the love that first drew me to you. Help me remain faithful to your call on my life. Amen.

Go

Go today to walk with a God who has been good in the past, who is faithful in the present, and who has prepared for you a future of overwhelming hope.