1 Thessalonians 2:13 King James Version (KJV) For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.
We are reading from the KJV this morning to address the wording “effectually worketh” which in the Greek is energeō. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon identifies it as intransitive, to be operative, be at work, put forth power. What we do know about energy is that it cannot be lost but can be translated to effect change. The power of the Holy Spirit abiding in us uses the Word of God to change us.
While the transformation of the mind is required to align our thinking patterns, it is not required to change our hearts. In our former lives education came to mind and then taken to heart. This spiritual concepts are designed to change the heart and then educate the mind with spiritual understanding which is provided by the Holy Spirit.
1 Corinthians 8:1b-3 English Standard Version
1 …we know that “all of us possess knowledge.” This “knowledge” puffs up, but love builds up. 2 If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know. 3 But if anyone loves God, he is known by God.
Can we see that the abiding presence of God in our hearts changes our hearts? If so then the abiding love will reveal to us God’s truths as we read His Word and changes our minds and way of thinking?
A lifetime of being told that effort brings reward has to be overcome to understand that we need to let go and let God. We will receive the benefits of change if we allow God to just let it happen.
Energeō!!