S – For God has not called us for impurity, but in holiness. ⁸ Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you.

1 Thessalonians 4:7–8 ESV

O – Commentary:

A second reason to avoid sexual immorality is that it goes against God’s calling for a Christian. Paul’s first reason (v. 6b) looks forward to the prospect of future punishment, but his second reason looks back to the purpose for which God called each Christian to Himself. God’s plan for a Christian includes purifying his life. Sexual immorality frustrates the purpose of God’s call. Certain pagan cults promoted unclean ceremonies, but Christ’s plans for a Christian are to clean him up. A holy life demonstrates God’s supernatural power at work overcoming what is natural, and it glorifies God. The Greek noun hagiasmos (“holiness”) occurs here for the fourth time in eight verses

 Thomas L. Constable, “1 Thessalonians,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 702.

A – Salvation is a free gift – Jesus paid the price for our salvation.  Living for God does come with a price for us – our daily lives need to begin to look more like Christ.  God is holy. When we bring our physical bodies, minds and actions in alignment with God’s character, we reflect him to others which brings him glory.  It is work.  Yet, taking on his character in our own lives allows us a stronger relationship with him.

R – Heavenly Father, you are Holy.  Empower us to walk in purity.  Give us the resolve and the strength to overcome the sin and patterns in our lives that keep us from purity.  Thank you for the Holy Spirit who leads and gives the ability to do this.