We all have potential and growth that God invites us into, and we also have limitations. Looking at the life and attitude of John the Baptist, Jesus, and Paul we will see ways we can embrace our different limitations to be seen as helpful in our journey with God.

A little bit of routine can go a long way in helping us stay focused as we live life in the middle of a world that is moving fast! 
"It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you'll be swept off to." -Bilbo Baggans.

Jesus modeled to His followers many moments of work and ministry, and moments of rest and separation from that work and ministry. He invites us into that type of pace of life. 

In chapter 5 Paul gives a multitude of directives that are in alignment with what a follower of Jesus looks like and lives like. All of which are impossibly high standards. This leads us back to looking to the Holy Spirit as we walk with Him and learn to live by His strength.

In this weeks passage we hear how death is not the end, and that Christ's resurrection is the redemptive launch of God's kingdom in this world. We await Christ's return to renew all things and to be with Him forevermore.

Holiness and being sanctified often sound like pious and removed terms, but the invitation of Jesus and instructions from Paul are practical and down to earth in how we grow in holiness.

We cannot live out being encouraged and hope for our future. We were not designed to. God invites us to stay encouraged in part by our connection to Him and to other followers of Jesus.

Paul communicates his love to the Thessalonians and his deep longing to see them again.

Paul communicates that because he cares, he is not like other 1st century people who are looking to deceive and negatively influence. His spiritual influence comes from having a spiritual character that aligns with Christ.

Series: Looking forward! 
Speaker: Pastor Colin Dyck