Good morning people who rejoice, pray and give thanks in all circumstances.
Yesterday, we looked at lordship in all of our ways. Today, let’s look at rejoicing, praying and giving thanks in all circumstances.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
This is a very difficult saying, both to hear and to live. But yet it is in the Bible as an exhortation to the church. Therefore, by the grace and power of God, it is possible.
The following scripture, written by Paul in prison, comes to mind:
Philippians 4:12-13 NIV I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
I struggle with this as much as the next person. In fact, we need to acknowledge that this is difficult. No, it is impossible outside of Christ who gives us the strength. Please hear this.
We must shift from I can’t to God can. As long as I think, say and act like I can’t, I am acknowledging that my focus is still on me. This is my greatest enemy – it always has been, and it always will be. This is not negative, this is honest.
But with God, in God and through God, anything is possible! Well, anything that God has called me to be and do is possible. If God doesn’t author it, God doesn’t need to sustain me in it.
This is not talking about the bad things that happen to me. There is always grace for me to walk through this in a God-honouring way. But God does not empower me when I make choices outside of His will.
Today, if you want to do the will of God and to please Him, rejoice, pray and give thanks in all circumstances. Fix your eyes on Jesus and worship Him in everything. Set your hearts and minds on things above where God sits enthroned in His glory. Speak life from your mouth, even over yourself.
May our words glorify God, edify people and terrify the devil. Amen!