“For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe“
which also effectively works
The words “effectively works” come from a Greek word meaning to put forth power, be operative. We get the English word “energize” from this Greek word (energew). The Word of God effectively works in our lives. The word “effectively works” is in the present tense, indicating that this is an ongoing work.
The words “effectively works” literally mean to work in. This is inherent power. Once the Word of God enters our hearts, it is effective in what it does to our souls because it has inherent power to work where other powers cannot work. The Word of God becomes effective through applying it to our own experience (cf. Jeremiah 23:29; Isaiah 49:2; Romans 1:16; Ephesians 6:17; Hebrews 4:12).
in you who believe
The word “believe” is in the present tense, indicating continuing action. The Thessalonians continued to believe in the power of the Word of God to change their lives. The Word brings ongoing evidence of changing lives. They endured a trial by God’s grace (2:14).
“So Samuel grew, and the Lord was with him and let none of his words fall to the ground” (1 Samuel 3: 19).
Paul’s team employed strategies to reach the Thessalonians, but they put their confidence in the Word of God to change lives (1:5; cf. Hebrews 4:12).
Principle:
If we apply the Bible to our experience, it will continually change our lives.
Application:
The truth of the Word of God constantly applied to our problems changes our hearts. When we receive the Bible as the Word of God, it will energize us to live powerfully beyond what our natural powers would allow us to do.
