Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks; for this is the will of
God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
As we journey through life, the road we travel will have many ups and downs, twists and turns, road blocks and easy sailing. How do we handle these situations? Do we pray only during the difficulty times? Do we praise him through the storms? Or maybe we try to handle things in our own way?
Paul tells us to “Rejoice evermore” which means to be joyful in all circumstances, regardless of life’s events. This is a divine call to live in gratitude. Rejoice in what Jesus has done for us and continues to do in our lives.
“Pray without ceasing” means to have a constant connection with God and include God in every aspect of our lives. We need to put everything in God’s hands. We need to trust that He knows what is best for us at all times. He is our Father. Keeping the lines of communication open with God is very important. Speak to the Father about everything. He knows what we need before we even say it! Know that God is present in all things.
“In everything give thanks” tells us to be thankful in all circumstances. Give thanks for everything God has provided for us, whether it’s a little or a lot. Give thanks that God gives us difficult times to benefit our lives. Give thanks that God is always present with us. Give thanks when we do not see a way, then God provides the way. Give thanks for the answers that God gives to our questions, even when it is not the answer we wanted. Give thanks in the quiet moments. Give thanks for the many blessings in life. Give thanks that nothing can separate us from God. Give thanks that God’s grace is enough to help us through every situation. Give thanks for the gift that God gave us- His only Son Jesus Christ, who died for our sins. In everything give thanks!
“For this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” means that in Christ, we are set apart from sin and into holiness. There are eight components of God’s will of holiness: salvation, self-sacrifice, filling of the Spirit, submission, suffering, satisfaction, trust and sanctification. I have a picture in my home that says, “The Will of God will never lead you where the Grace of God will not protect you.” Amen!
This verse in First Thessalonians is a reminder that God wants us to approach life with a grateful heart, knowing that He has a plan for us. As children of God, we have benefits and blessings beyond our understanding. I read this prayer today and I would love it if you would pray it with me: "Heavenly Father, may I grow in grace and in an attitude of thanksgiving for all that You have done for me in Christ Jesus. Lord, I desire that your will be done in my life. I know that it is Your will that should give thanks in all things, and so I pray that you would develop and refine this exquisite grace of thanksgiving in me. This I ask in Jesus’ name, Amen." (Author Unknown)
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