To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift.

We should be passionate about our spiritual lives.

Don’t be a jerk for Jesus.

We should light a candle instead of cursing the darkness.

Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically.

But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

But those who won't care for their own relatives, especially those living in the same household, have denied what we believe. Such people are worse than unbelievers.

Even while we were with you, we gave you this rule: "Whoever does not work should not eat."

And the LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a companion who will help him."

And be sure of this: I am with you always,

knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.

Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and always be prayerful.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Now glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us, he is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope.

And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;

When God's children are in need, be the one to help them out. And get into the habit of inviting guests home for dinner or, if they need lodging, for the night.

If people persecute you because you are a Christian, don't curse them; pray that God will bless them.

When others are happy, be happy with them. If they are sad, share their sorrow.

22 But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. Here there is no conflict with the law.

Live in harmony with each other. Don't try to act important, but enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don't think you know it all!

There is more hope for fools than for people who think they are wise.

Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable.

Do your part to live in peace with everyone, as much as possible.

Dear friends, never avenge yourselves. Leave that to God. For it is written,
"I will take vengeance;
I will repay those who deserve it,"

Instead, do what the Scriptures say:
"If your enemies are hungry, feed them.
If they are thirsty, give them something to drink,
and they will be ashamed of what they have done to you."

Don't let evil get the best of you, but conquer evil by doing good.

So I advise you to live according to your new life in the Holy Spirit. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves.

If we are living now by the Holy Spirit, let us follow the Holy Spirit's leading in every part of our lives.