Day's Journey, Tearing Down Altars

Tearing Down Altars: Living to Please God

Posted by Lisa Rene Delgado on
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Sanctification: God’s Will Made Clear

A Day’s Journey through 1 Thessalonians 4:3–8

Soli Deo Gloria

“For this is the will of God, your sanctification…”
 — 1 Thessalonians 4:3

Holiness Expressed Through Love

Sanctification is not cold separation—it is Love shaped by obedience.

God’s will is not only that we turn away from sin, but that we learn how to treat one another in ways that reflect His character. True holiness is never harsh, proud, or withdrawn. It is kind, generous, and self-giving.

Morning Devotional

Set Apart in Heart and Conduct

Scripture Focus:

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:3–5
  • Ephesians 4:32

Paul teaches that sanctification touches every part of life—thoughts, desires, actions. But Scripture also makes clear that holiness is not merely avoidance of sin; it is the active practice of Christlike Love.

“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.”

Sanctification matures when forgiveness replaces resentment and kindness replaces self-protection. We are set apart not to withdraw from others, but to Love them differently.

Sacred Pause (Morning)

  • Where is God inviting me to practice kindness instead of control?
  • Is there anyone I need to forgive as an act of obedience?

Noon Reflection

Holiness That Does Good

Scripture Focus:

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:6–7
  • Hebrews 13:16

Paul reminds us that sin harms others—and holiness protects them. God’s will is that our lives reflect His goodness in practical ways, not just private devotion.

“But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.”

Holiness is lived out through generosity, compassion, and shared burdens. These are sacrifices God delights in—not because they earn favor, but because they mirror His heart.

Prayer of Repentance, Forgiveness & Alignment

Merciful God,
Forgive me where I have pursued holiness without Love, or devotion without kindness. I repent of unforgiveness, indifference, and withheld compassion. Teach me to walk in sanctification that blesses others and honors You. Shape my heart to reflect Your mercy.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Evening Devotional

Receiving the Spirit Who Forms Christ in Us

Scripture Focus:

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:8
  • Romans 5:5

God does not call us to holiness without help. He gives us His Holy Spirit, who pours God’s Love into our hearts and empowers us to live differently.

Rejecting God’s instruction is resisting the Spirit—but yielding produces transformation marked by Love, gentleness, and generosity.

Sacred Pause (Evening)

  • Where did I see Love grow in me today?
  • How did God help me choose kindness or goodness?

Evening Prayer of Surrender & Rest

Faithful Father,
Thank You for giving me Your Spirit to teach me how to love as You love. I surrender every hard place in my heart. As I rest tonight, continue forming Christ in me—through kindness, forgiveness, and good works that please You.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Closing Doxology

Praise and glory to God Almighty,
 the True and Living God.
 He is pleased with lives shaped by love,
 kindness, and faithful obedience.
 Soli Deo Gloria.

Scriptures

  • Ephesians 4:32 shows what sanctification looks like in relationships
  • Hebrews 13:16 shows how holiness becomes active Love
  • Together with 1 Thessalonians 4, they teach us how to walk, not perform