Paul concludes his first letter to the Thessalonians with a list of various challenges and commands. To read through them can even be a bit disorienting— where do we need to put the most focus and attention? How can we do all of these things at once? If that weren’t enough, he tops it all off with—“And may your whole spirit, soul, and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thess. 5:23). Blameless? Really, Paul? Every part of me? How intimidating these verses can be.

But then Paul brings us back to this sure foundation—“He who calls you is faithful; he will do it” (1 Thess. 5:24). When you feel inadequate or like you can’t live the Christian life, remember the faithfulness of God. As Paul reminded the Philippians, “I am sure of this, that he who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Phil. 1:6). It was God who made us, God who saved us, and it will be God who sees us through to the end. Take heart; He is with you, and with Him, you will cross the finish line.

In which area of your life do you need to remember to rely on God and not your own abilities?