“You became imitators of us and of the Lord; in spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with joy given by the Holy Spirit.”
(I Thessalonians 1:6)

We find it so easy to let our circumstances determine our
moods. Paul reminds this group of new Christians under
attack that their new life in Christ had brought them joy
despite the outwardly harsh circumstances they were facing.
Their joy was not the fleeting, circumstance-determined veneer.
Instead, they had welcomed the powerful message of salvation
with joy! This joy was not dependent upon their
circumstances. It was rooted in their Saviour’s example, in His
abiding presence through the Holy Spirit, and the salvation
available through Jesus Christ.

Heavenly Father. Help make our joy immune to outward circumstances and bless us
as we seek to confirm our lives and attitudes to the example of our Lord and
Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Help us to become better examples of spiritual joy to
those around us. Amen

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If we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, purifies us from all sin.
(1 John 1:7)

As we draw near to the Lord and live for Him, two amazing
blessings come our way. First, we find that our sins are
forgiven and we’re cleansed of those sins thanks to the loving
sacrifice of Jesus. Second, we find that we are not alone in this
wonderful cleansing. True fellowship among believers is built
when people seeking the Lord find each other in His presence.
This fellowship isn’t forced or contrived, it’s Heavenly!

Almighty God, we want to honor Jesus’ sacrificial death by living a life that is
pure, honorable, and holy. Thank you for providing
Our cleansing through the
blood of Jesus, and leading us to others who live for You. Intensify our hunger
to know you, Your Son, and other believers more. Amen