I hear a lot of discussions about very deep and philosophical questions and wranglings over the Bible. We as humans are fascinated with the unknown. We love to wonder about the deep and mysterious workings of the infinite God of the universe, as if we have the mental capacity to fully understand them! We delve into the depths of biblical minutiae like ignorant experts and become doubtful and disappointed with God over what we simply cannot understand.
But what about the timeless, simple principles found throughout the Bible—principles that are easily understood and would improve our overall quality of life? Some of them are too basic to misunderstand. Instead of comparing ourselves to others and being distracted by all the social media “noise,” 24/7 news, and daily demands of life, why not step back, take a few deep breaths, and, most of all—listen? Listen to what God says in His Word for our good. He has a plan. He has wise counsel if we will only listen attentively.
We can know the will of God for our lives.
Over the years, I have wondered about God’s will for my life. There were the “big” decisions about education, my profession, and my life partner. When we pray for wisdom and guidance, God answers! (Proverbs 3:5-6; James 1:5). I have few doubts that He has led me every step of the way in those big decisions.
But after those decisions are made, what is God’s will for us on a daily basis? Paul gives us some important principles for our daily walk. God has beautiful plans for us. We simply have to walk in what He has laid out before us in His Word.
1 Thessalonians 4 gives us a few simple, beautiful guidelines for “how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more” (verse 1, KJV).
Finally then, brethren, we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God;
These principles are themselves part of the foundational will of God for us. How they are lived out may look different in each of our lives, but the principles remain the same. It doesn’t seem that complicated. Here are a few principles I learned from verses 1–12:
Seek to live a holy life. Paul clearly states that God's will for those who call themselves His is to become sanctified. Sanctification is a process. In it, God desires to set His people apart as a special treasure for the whole world to behold. We are to become holy so that, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, we shine as lights in the world (Philippians 2:15). Being set apart doesn’t make us better than others, just better off. Holiness is a prerequisite to being able to see God in peace when He comes (Hebrews 12:14). Paul also calls us to honor the Lord with our bodies, including abstaining from sexual immorality. What all of this means to me is that in every decision I make each day, I should seek to do only what aligns with living a holy life before the Lord.
Do not defraud your brother. Imagine how beautiful life would be if we never had to experience being tricked or deceived for someone else’s personal gain. How many marriages might be saved and friendships kept intact? How much more meaningful and peaceful might our relationships become? Workplaces, neighborhoods, and families would be beautiful places in which to thrive. Society itself would be transformed. This is God’s will for His creation.
Live a quiet life. More and more people are choosing tiny houses and minimalist lifestyles. Many are leaving behind the trappings and noise of big cities and choosing quieter, more rural settings instead. There is a lot of “noise” in the complexity of our 21st-century world, and God knew full well we would get here. Paul counsels us to study, to be quiet, mind our own business, and work with our hands (verse 11). Being more self-sufficient in how we live can be beneficial for us as we enter difficult times involving buying and selling in connection with the mark of the beast (Revelation 13:17). Paul also counsels us to live honestly and honorably before those outside the faith, allowing our everyday lives to be a positive witness to them.
Call to Action
In 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18, we have a wonderful prescription for a beautiful life in the Lord. Paul says, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
Live a quiet life. Do not defraud your brother. Seek to live a holy life. Three simple principles. But are you willing to ask God to help you put them into practice?
Will you join me in praying that God will help us follow His will and live out these simple principles each day?
Unless noted otherwise, scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
