Becoming a model

I quote from Jim Cymbala often.  If you run across one of his books or videos, you will be blessed in absorbing the biblical truths he shares from the Word of God.  Today I picked up one of his older writings and he was teaching from 1 Thessalonians 1:6-7.  Following the verses is a list of the things we can learn from the message we welcome.

"You welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit.  And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia."

When you consider God's message of love and forgiveness, along with his willingness to forgive our sins, what comes to your mind concerning your status with God?  Do you believe him?  Are you obedient to his commands?  Do you enjoy a vibrant and living relationship with him?

Here's the list:

1.  All our sins have been completely erased by the blood of Jesus.

2.  There is no record of even one transgression against us by our Holy God.

3.   Our names have been written in the Lamb's book of life.

4.  Jesus has gone to prepare a place where we can spend eternity with him.

5.  Our Lord has promised to never leave us or forsake us.

6.  God has given the Holy Spirit as our Comforter and his Word to guide us.

7.  God has promised to supply our needs and hear us when we pray.

Maybe you can add to Cymbala's list.  Our God so abundantly blesses us and loves us a complete list would be impossible to make.  There is no doubt that God loves you and me, and desires that we live our lives in fulfilling his plan for us. 

Read the list again, and thank God for every blessing we have in Jesus Christ.  Then, become a model to all believers.  You will be abundantly blessed.

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