April 21, 2026

TURNAROUND

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“For they keep talking about the wonderful welcome you gave us and how you turned away from idols to serve the living and true God. And they speak of how you are looking forward to the coming of God’s Son from heaven—Jesus, whom God raised from the dead. He is the one who has rescued us from the terrors of the coming judgment.”

1 Thessalonians 1:9-10 NLT

---

TODAY’S THOUGHT

As Paul wraps up this first chapter, he focuses on the two things that made the Thessalonian transformation so undeniable: they turned away from the old and started looking forward to the new.

True salvation is always more than just "head knowledge." It’s a total shift in direction. Here are three markers of that change:

1. A Decisive Turn: Becoming a follower of Jesus isn’t just agreeing with a new set of ideas; it’s a life change. To "turn away from idols" means we stop drawing our joy and passion from the same temporary things the world does. We move from seeking self-satisfaction to serving the "living and true God." Repentance isn't just walking away from the wrong things; it’s walking toward the Right Person.

2. An Eternal Investment: The world lives for the "now," often with little thought for the long-term impact of today’s choices. As followers of Christ, we live with a bigger picture. We put our energy, time, talent, and treasure into things with eternal significance. When we organize our lives around building His kingdom rather than our own, our daily schedule starts to look noticeably different from the culture around us.

3. A Confident Hope: The Thessalonians were famous for their focus on the return of Jesus. They knew that "better days are ahead." I have long contended that you can live through hell if you know it is only temporary. Our houses, cars, and even our physical bodies are passing away—but we are looking forward to a New Heaven and a New Earth. Knowing that Jesus has rescued us from judgment allows us to live with peace, regardless of today's headlines.

Today’s Reflection

• The Difference: Is your life noticeably different from those who don't follow Christ? In what specific way has your "source of joy" changed?

• The Calendar: Does the way you spend your time, and resources reflect a "long-term" eternal mindset or a "short-term" temporary one?

• The Focus: What is one area of your life where you need the Holy Spirit to help you refocus on the "big picture" of eternity today?

TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, I need Your help. I confess that I get short-sighted and lose my focus on eternity. Forgive me for living for the moment instead of for Your Kingdom. Help me to make daily choices that reflect Your transforming work in my life. Amen.

“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”