June 25, 2025

REFLECTING THE GLORY OF CHRIST

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“As for us, we can’t help but thank God for you, dear brothers and sisters loved by the Lord. We are always thankful that God chose you to be among the first to experience salvation—a salvation that came through the Spirit who makes you holy and through your belief in the truth.”

2 Thessalonians 2:13 NLT

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TODAY’S THOUGHT

Let’s take a moment to reflect on the powerful role of the Holy Spirit in both our salvation and our ongoing sanctification.

1. Conviction – The First Work

In John 16:7–11, Jesus teaches us that the Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. This conviction is not condemnation—it’s a gracious invitation. It’s the moment when our spiritual eyes are opened, and we realize our need for a Savior.

Conviction is the Holy Spirit lovingly pointing out, “This isn’t the way.” He reveals the brokenness of our sinful choices, and then shows us a better way—a life of righteousness through Christ. Without this awakening, we would never seek change or understand the depth of God’s mercy.

2. Sanctification – The Ongoing Work

Paul reminds us in today’s passage that it is the Spirit who “makes you holy.” That word “makes” is key. Holiness isn’t a one-time event; it’s a lifelong transformation. It’s not about trying harder—it’s about allowing the Spirit to shape us, day by day, into the likeness of Christ.

Sanctification is the Spirit’s daily work of refining us:

• He reveals the parts of our heart that need to be surrendered.

• He convicts us when our attitudes stray from Christ-like humility.

• He empowers us to change our actions, speak life, walk in purity, and love sacrificially.

We are not yet perfect—but we are being perfected.

3. Our Role – Believing the Truth

While the Spirit does the work, we must also respond. Paul says this salvation came “through your belief in the truth.” The Word of God is the foundation of our transformation. As we read, meditate on, and obey Scripture, our faith activates the Spirit’s work in our hearts.

We must become students of the Word, not just hearers but doers. Our belief in the truth aligns us with God’s will and allows the Holy Spirit to fully operate in our lives.

You are not alone in your journey of faith. The Spirit is with you, working in you, and shaping you to reflect the glory of Christ.

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TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, I invite You to work daily in and through my life. Reveal to me the areas that need to change. Shine the light of Your truth into every corner of my heart. Shape me into the image of Christ. I surrender to Your work. Keep me growing, keep me humble, and keep me close to Jesus. Amen.

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