1 Thessalonians 5-6.7.22

Scripture

I Thessalonians 5:16-18

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Observation

In Thessalonians chapter 5, Paul is finishing up his letter to the church in Thessalonica. He encourages them to stay on mission until Jesus returns.

Understanding

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances. Easy, right?

I read some good explanations in the Asbury Bible Commentary:

Rejoice always – “Life lived in the power of the Spirit produces a stable and deep-rooted joy which is not a worked-up human emotion of feeling good.” So in other words, what is going on around us is not the source of our joy – God is the source of our joy. There is a difference between momentary “happiness” and true joy. We need to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, in whatever circumstances.

Pray continually – “To pray continually means that every activity must be carried on with a sense of God’s presence.” Invite Him in to everything. Prayer doesn’t have to only be time on your knees. Invite Him in to every part of your day.

Give thanks in all circumstances – (This one is great – listen up!) “Paul commands his readers to give thanks in the midst of all circumstances, not to give thanks for all circumstances.” God doesn’t tell us to be thankful for the bad things that happen. He tells us that even in the midst of the bad things, He is still there and He still loves us. Can we believe that? Can we put our hope in Him?

Life Application

Jesus, please forgive me for my bad attitude today. I certainly wasn’t giving thanks or praying continually. And because of that, I messed up, said things I shouldn’t have, and have some apologizing to do. Help me to remember to run to you when I face challenges. Only you are my source of joy.

-Debbie Dunn