Begin with two minutes of stillness and silence before God.

One of my favorite current songs is “Simple Kingdom” because it beautifully captures how different a heaven-sent mindset is from the American dream.

“His kingdom is backwards; it flows in reverse.

What you call a treasure, this world calls a curse.”

That line has stuck with me. Because the more I read Paul’s words in 1 Thessalonians 4, the more apparent it becomes that the way of Jesus is radically different.

What if living a quiet life, working with our hands, and loving people well is actually one of the loudest Gospel messages we can give?

We live in a world that’s chasing attention, spotlight, social media likes, and followers. But Paul reminds us that consistency in character creates credibility in witness.

You don’t have to have a microphone to have influence.

You don’t need a platform to preach.

You don’t need a YouTube channel to make a difference.

You just need to live like Jesus, more and more, right where you are.

This kind of thinking is radical today. It goes against everything the world teaches:

Love even more / not pick apart what divides us.

Lead a quiet life / not chase the next big spotlight.

Mind your own business / not meddle, gossip, or stir up division.

Work with your hands / not tear others down, but build something lasting.

It’s not complicated. It’s not flashy. But it’s powerful.

His kingdom doesn’t run on ego, attention, or applause.

It runs on humility, service, and love.

Let’s not miss the simplicity of our calling.

Take two minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflection:

Use the S.O.A.P. Method to study God’s Word.

• SCRIPTURE: What stands out to you in today’s passage?
• OBSERVATION: What is this text saying? What is the context? How does it fit with the verses before and after it? Are there any commands, instructions, or promises? 
• APPLICATION: How can you apply this verse to your life? What does this mean today? What is God saying to you? 
• PRAYER: Respond to the passage in prayer. Ask God to help you apply this truth to your life and spend some time listening to what He may be telling you.

FALL AT VENTURE

KXP, MVMNT, The Gathering, House Church, and Care Groups are all starting back this fall! For launch dates and events, check out the Fall at Venture webpage.