1 Thessalonians 5:23 (NIV): “May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
I got up this morning and the results of the Presidential election were still inconclusive. With all the technology we have in the United States, we still can’t seem to count ballots in an expeditious manner.
It is tough to wait. Quite honestly, I don’t know too many people who really embrace it. In the Army I had a year long hardship tour in Korea as well as six combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. I vividly remember knowing the projected day that I would return to my wife and children. Part of my daily life was waiting for that day.
The Bible is very clear about waiting for another projected date. The Bible says that it is coming, yet doesn’t give the exact date. Of course I am talking about the second coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. We know about the first coming and celebrate it each year at Christmas. We also know about His resurrection and celebrate Easter each year. For me, having a rhythm of Christian celebrations reminds me of my hope.
I’m still waiting though. This verse, found right toward the end of Paul’s first epistle to the Thessalonians, seems to give me purpose as I wait. I need to allow God to do his thing in me. God himself will sanctify me through and through. My purpose is a oneness with God that can allow my spirit, my soul, and my body to be kept blameless when Jesus does come again. My life can therefore be characterized by a hope that transcends my current circumstances.
I believe this hope also applies to the temporary challenges found in elections. Since my citizenship is in heaven, I can wait for results confident in knowing that God knows. I don’t have to lose sleep. I don’t have to fret. I can have peace because the “God of peace” is working on me.
Prayer: Forgive me Lord for when I am anxious. I let go of my expectation regarding this election and I choose to trust in You regardless. May You use me as Your tool to model peace even while waiting.
