Mark Vestal Proud of nothing of myself. Freed by Christ who did it all!

We have all been given free will to live our lives as we choose, and our choices will help or hinder our walk in faith. I believe this is what Paul is referring to when he says to 'quench not the Spirit' in 1 Thessalonians chapter 5 (below). Basically, allow the Spirit to work through you, remembering that you have been purchased by God through your faith in the blood of Jesus Christ.

The Spirit, through God's Word, tells us that seeking that which is of the Spirit should now take priority over our carnal and earthly desires of the flesh. We may miss opportunities of sanctification of ourselves and edification of the church the body of Christ when we push against the guidance of the Spirit. We are therefore not capitalizing on opportunities (redeeming the time) before us while here on earth to act and live as effectively as possible as ambassadors for Christ. 

Paul, in 1 Thessalonians chapter 5, picks up after describing Israel's eventual time of tribulation and goes into some detail regarding spiritual direction in a believers life. He notes that our lives should be lived joyfully knowing that we, under God's grace and as saved members of the church the body of Christ, are not appointed to the forthcoming wrath of God. The below verses offer specific examples of 'redeeming the time' which doing the opposite of may answer the specific question.

From the King James Version of 1 Thessalonians Chapter 5:9-23
"9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,
10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.
11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.
12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;
13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves.
14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.
15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.
16 Rejoice evermore.
17 Pray without ceasing.
18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
19 Quench not the Spirit.
20 Despise not prophesyings.
21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.
22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ."

March 21 2023 • 4 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report