Devotional: My Purpose

2 Thessalonians 2:13-17(NASB)

13 But we should always give thanks to God for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God has chosen you [a]from the beginning for salvation [b]through sanctification [c]by the Spirit and faith in the truth.14 It was for this He called you through our gospel, [d]that you may gain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 So then, brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught, whether by word of mouthor by letter [e]from us.

16 Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope by grace,17 comfort and strengthen your hearts in every good work and word.

As you saw in my last devotional, I like making lists.  So I have another list I want to share with you.  This one has to do with our purpose.

What is my purpose?

1. 1 Thessalonians 1:5 that I may be considered worthy of the kingdom of God
2. v. 14 that I gain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ
3. v. 13 that I be sanctified

How am I to achieve my purpose?

1. v. 15 stand firm in what you were taught
2. v. 15 hold to the traditions of Scripture
3. v. 13 by the Holy Spirit
4. v. 13 by faith in the truth

What is God's provision?

1. v. 16 eternal comfort
2. v. 16 hope by grace
3. v. 17 strength for good works and word

I love the simplicity of Scripture!  It couldn't be more clear.  I love that when God tells us what we are to do, He also gives us promises of His provision to help us do it.  We just need to take hold of His promises and stand in His truth.  He will help us do and be what He wants us to do and be.