How can we "walk and please God" in our daily lives today? The Call to a Pleasing Walk “Finally then, brothers, we ask and encourage you in the Lord Jesus to walk in a manner worthy of the instruction you received from us as to how you must walk and please God— as you are even doing— so that you would do so even more.” (1 Thessalonians 4:1) Grounding Our Walk in the Word • Scripture is the straightedge for every step. – Psalm 119:9: “How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to Your word.” – Joshua 1:8: Meditate day and night, then “you will make your way prosperous.” • Read, reflect, and retain: a daily rhythm of intake (hearing), insight (study), and implementation (obedience). • Measure decisions against clear commands: honesty (Ephesians 4:25), sexual purity (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5), generous speech (Ephesians 4:29). Spirit-Empowered Obedience • Galatians 5:16: “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” • Dependence, not mere determination: – Pray for filling (Ephesians 5:18). – Submit attitudes and actions moment by moment (Romans 8:13-14). • Evidence of Spirit-led walking: love, joy, peace… the full fruit list (Galatians 5:22-23). Pursuing Holiness in Every Area • God’s will is “your sanctification” (1 Thessalonians 4:3). • Practical checkpoints: – Thoughts: 2 Corinthians 10:5, take every thought captive. – Body: 1 Corinthians 6:18-20, honor God with your body. – Time: Ephesians 5:15-16, redeem the time. • Holiness is separation from sin and dedication to God—both sides are vital. Overflowing Love for Others • 1 Thessalonians 4:9-10: “You yourselves are taught by God to love one another… do so more and more.” • Tangible expressions: – Kind speech (Proverbs 15:1). – Practical service (Hebrews 13:16). – Forgiveness that mirrors Christ (Ephesians 4:32). • Love validates faith before a watching world (John 13:35). A Lifestyle of Worship and Gratitude • Romans 12:1: offer your body “as a living sacrifice”; everyday tasks become worship. • 1 Thessalonians 5:18: “Give thanks in all circumstances,” cultivating joy and humility. • Praise recalibrates the heart, turning focus from self to the worthiness of God (Psalm 103:1-5). Growing “More and More” • Spiritual progress isn’t optional; it’s expected (Philippians 1:9-11). • Practical tools: – Set attainable goals: memorize one verse per week, serve in one new ministry area. – Seek accountability: share goals with a mature believer (Hebrews 10:24-25). – Celebrate grace-wins: note God’s faithfulness, not just your effort (Philippians 2:12-13). • The promise: “He who calls you is faithful, and He will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24). Walking to please God is a dynamic, Spirit-charged journey grounded in His Word, expressed through holy living, loving relationships, grateful worship, and continual growth—until the day we see Him face to face. |
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