1 Chronicles 13-14, Proverbs 18:13-24, 1 Thessalonians 3

What God said to me – Have you ever had an event or a tournament that you wanted to do but it required that you get in shape and prepare so you could really enjoy it and do your best?  Whether it’s a race or a hike or a tournament of some kind or even just a trip where you know a lot of walking is required, you practice and prepare – you walk or run or lift weights or practice the sport over and over so that you can enjoy the time and present your very best.  What about spiritually?  What are you doing and how are you living daily so you can present your very best to Me at My coming?  Spiritual strength and spiritual growth do not just happen.  Just like running a race or playing in a tournament, it requires time, effort and practice if you want to do well.  This time with Me and in My word is essential and you must take the time to put into practice the things I teach you.  You must use your gifts in ministry as I call you.  I will strengthen you and establish your heart so that you are without blame in holiness before Me at My coming.

1 Chronicles 11-12, Proverbs 18:1-12, 1 Thessalonians 2

What God said to me – During the time when I was transitioning Israel from the rule of Saul, an ungodly king, to David, a man after My own heart, there was much unrest and warfare, and it was a difficult time.  I began to draw men throughout Israel to David.  These men were warriors and ready to fight to establish his kingdom.  The sons of Issachar who came were men who understood the times and the sons of Zebulun came prepared for battle with and undivided heart toward David.  You live in a world that is transitioning from the rule of the prince of the power of the air to the rule of the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.  Your battle is not against flesh and blood but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in heavenly places.  Be like the sons of Issachar and understand the times in which you are living.  Be like the sons of Zebulun and come to Me with an undivided heart to live for Me.  Put on My full armor and take up the sword of the Spirit which is My word and pray.  When the battle is most intense fall on your knees and fight.

1 Chronicles 9-10, Proverbs 17:14-28, 1 Thessalonians 1

What God said to me – The world today is in many ways like the society that the believers in Thessalonica lived in.  It was ungodly and perverse and hated Christians and what they represented to the point of ever-growing persecution and yet those who became believers actively tried to imitate Me and to walk in holiness.  As a result, they became wonderful examples of godly Christians and were effective witnesses because of it.  Their focus was to serve Me no matter what as they waited for My Son to return and rescue them from the wrath that was to come.  The time of My wrath being poured out is rapidly approaching but so is My rescue of those who are Mine.  As you wait anxiously for it you must live like the Thessalonians.  Purpose to imitate My holiness in your daily walk so that you are a godly example to others and so you are able to be an effective witness to those who are lost.