No Shame

On page 137 of William Greathouse’s work he says,

“Everything Paul says about the Thessalonians witnesses to their genuine conversion from paganism to Christ. He clearly affirms their election to salvation. In spite of their persecution they had received the word with joy inspired by the Holy Spirit, thereby becoming an example to all the believers in Macedonia.”

That is a pretty high honor that someone like Paul, who himself had experienced a very miraculous conversion to Christ, would use the conversion of the Thessalonians as an example of those who joyfully received the Word and responded in faith to receive Christ. Now we have this accolade to read for centuries to come.

It made me wonder if those looking at my life will say the same thing. That the way I live and love God and others is a testament to have received the word joyfully. Is my life an example of how to live in the Spirit? Am I reflecting Christ’s attitude in all situations..including “persecution” for any multitude of choices I am responsible to make.

My prayer would be that found in Psalm 69:6 which says,

Lord, the LORD Almighty, may those who hope in you not be disgraced because of me; God of Israel, may those who seek you not be put to shame because of me.

It would be my heart’s cry that I honor God with all I say and all I do and that I would never do anything that would bring shame to the name of Jesus or those who wholeheartedly follow Him.

Jay