We know, dear brothers and sisters, that God loves you and has chosen you to be his own people. For when we brought you the Good News, it was not only with words but also with power, for the Holy Spirit gave you full assurance that what we said was true. And you know of our concern for you from the way we lived when we were with you. So you received the message with joy from the Holy Spirit in spite of the severe suffering it brought you. In this way, you imitated both us and the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 1:4-6, NLT
All religions offer beliefs about life, human nature, and eternity. But most fall short when it comes to answering two key questions:
- How do we access eternal life?
2. How do we overcome evil in this world?
This is where Christianity stands apart. Christianity isn’t just another religion—it is the truth revealed in a person: Jesus Christ. He wasn’t simply a wise teacher or spiritual leader. He is God in human form. No other religion makes this claim.
Jesus clearly told people why He came: to save us by taking on our sin, dying in our place, and rising again. But even as He was crucified, many didn’t understand who He really was.
Only after the giving of God’s Holy Spirit were people genuinely able to understand what had happened and what was happening to them as they believed by faith in Christ. And that faith was and is mighty and changes nature. It does this because the nature of God is in it and resides in you if you will permit Him to.
That’s why Paul says the message of the Gospel came “not only with words but also with power.” The Thessalonians received this message with joy, even while enduring persecution. That same joy and power are available to believers today, including those who suffer for their faith around the world.
Educators, let’s ask ourselves today, Am I living a faith of lasting joy even in the face of evil or persecution?
If not, you can be! Christ wants to give it to you. He’s looking for it in you, and He’s more than willing to place it there.
Walk in joy and in power today!
I am glad You are with me today, Lord, even if others mistreat me. I pray for others suffering much more than I am. I trust You to guide my actions and attitudes. Please show me if there is anything in me that displeases You. Thank You. Amen.
Copyright Dr. Dan Elliott.
Dr. Elliott, a lifetime Christian Educators member, is currently retired and living in California.
