Always Joyful
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 – Be joyful always; pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
These verses from 1 Thessalonians help me to focus on my relationship in Christ and just how rich I am. Let’s begin with “Be joyful always”. How can I have joy all day long? If I start the day thanking the Lord for the wonderful things I’ve been blessed with; I have a better chance to stay focused on what’s most important and to experience joy. The first and most important thing to remember is that I am saved by grace and I hold onto that grace by faith. I’m certain of His love and mercy forever and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit being by my side along the way. I also think of my family, wonderful friends, and an amazing Christian family to share my joy. Next, I try to focus on the specific gifts the Lord has given me. I really have much to be thankful for, and giving thanks gives me joy!
Then we should “pray continually”. I have times of quiet reflection to start the day and as I close the day. These would be what most would consider prayer times as we’ve been taught. But to pray continually, or “without ceasing” as some translations state, I do by having conversation with the Lord in my thoughts and actions throughout the day. I trust that He is my constant companion. He with me 24 x 7, so why would I not engage in conversation? But remember the conversation cannot just be one way - me monopolizing the conversation, so I try to find time to just be. After all, I can’t hear Him if I don’t stop and listen.
And then there’s the call to “give thanks in all circumstances”. I want to point out that the verse says give thanks in and not for all circumstances. I can thank Him for being with me in my situations – both good and bad. He provides His grace and strength to meet my needs and I can give thanks in all circumstances as this is His will for me in Christ Jesus.
Heavenly Father, I thank You for the blessings You’ve bestowed on me and for Your companionship and conversations each day. You are my strength and redeemer – in Jesus’ name, Amen.