Amidst Our Greatest Mistakes

What’s the silliest, most embarrassing, or most laughable mistake you’ve ever made in your life? Some of us have long lists of ridiculous slip-ups. On the other hand, others of us make an effort to forget those blunders just as soon as they happen. One thing that’s the same for all of us is that we’re all prone to making mistakes; it’s just part of the human experience.

In fact, you’ve probably heard this phrase used to excuse poor behavior or bad choices: “We’re only human.” But there’s more to it than that.

The Good News is Greater

The good news of the gospel is that while we may be only human, Jesus isn’t only human. He is both fully human and fully God. Upon this truth is where today’s Bible verse comes into full effect: the gospel is not a mere human message, but the true and living Word of God.

And that’s the basis of Paul’s thankfulness for the Father’s thoughtfulness, the Word moves in power and that His Spirit moves in abundance. And in this, salvation takes effect and works in us as those who believe in the Son.

In Confidence and Conviction

This good news is enough to change the way we walk–no longer as those who cower in shame or embarrassment of their mistakes or bad choices and behavior.

Instead, we move in confidence and in conviction of who God is what He is able to accomplish within us. This is why the apostle is celebrating: the gospel is being proclaimed and received, welcomed and believed. We’re only human, but this is more than that. We worship a God who can do infinitely and abundantly more to not just cover our mistakes and mishaps, but give us the confidence we need to live lives for His glory.

Now What?

Are you walking in a manner that embodies the church in Thessalonica? Are you walking in thankfulness and in God’s abundant strength? Can others see the gospel’s transformational power at work in your life? Take a moment to reflect on where you’ve come from and where the Lord is leading you even now.