Change of direction

They themselves declare . . . how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God. — 1 Thessalonians 1:9The United States Secret Service was founded in 1865. Their mission? To deal with counterfeiters in an attempt to protect the dollar and, as a result, America’s national economy. This targeted group of law enforcement officers, however, experienced a change of direction in 1902. They became best known for protecting the President of the United States, although their charge still embodies a variety of tasks.

That change of direction in the Secret Service duties is nothing compared to the completely altered lives of the believers at Thessalonica. They had a spiritual transformation that turned their lives around, which was noticed by people far and wide. Paul wrote, “Your turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God” (1 Thess. 1:9). And “you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe. . . Your faith toward God has gone out” (vv. 7-8). The change of direction they displayed was dramatic, to say the least — abandoning the worship of idols to embrace relationship with the true and living God. And people noticed the difference in their lives.

I wonder — do people recognize such a profound change in our hearts and lives? — Bill Crowder

If you are going to the wrong direction,

Or if you have no goal in view,

Let Christ transform you, have control,

Then honor Him in all you do. — Hess

READ: 1 Thessalonians 1

Coming to Christ is not merely informational; it’s transformational.

The Bible in one year:

* Daniel 3-4

• 1 John 5