Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-24 (NRSV)
DEVOTIONAL:
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing and give thanks in all circumstances.
We know this is not our first nature. How many times do we have a rough day, not wanting to rejoice, failing to pray because we don’t find the time or the desire?
Rejoice always. We can rejoice always because although we live in this world, our joy isn’t based in this world. Rather, it is based on God. Trials are what help us grow, give us faith, and let us connect to others. Through trials, we rediscover ourselves. God never changes. Rejoice through it all — God’s love and grace are on our side!
Pray without ceasing. Prayer is our unique connection to our Creator. Praying without ceasing seems overwhelming and difficult – but what is prayer? Could this unceasing prayer also refer to our attitude? When we pray we refocus ourselves, re-center on what’s important, and approach stations with a God-like attitude. It allows us to be mindful of a world beyond ourselves and lets us know God is in control.
Give thanks in all circumstances. At some point in our lives, we all go through tough, unexplainable experiences. Did you hear that? All. Every one of us. We are not alone in our struggles; we have the most powerful being imploring us to give ourselves up, willing to bear our load and give us rest. Isn’t that a perfect reason to give thanks? I think so.
As Paul writes, “May the God of peace himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do this.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24)
In this season of love, giving and sacrifice, let Paul’s words be a faithful reminder that through everything, the God of peace is faithful in every moment of our lives. Let us rejoice, give thanks, and pray without ceasing for our God is great!
Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-24 (NRSV)
Rejoice always, 17pray without ceasing, 18give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19Do not quench the Spirit. 20Do not despise the words of prophets, 21but test everything; hold fast to what is good; 22abstain from every form of evil.
23May the God of peace himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do this.