“Rejoice evermore. 17. Pray without ceasing. 18. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
The text printed above suggested three reasons that we have for being thankful. First, it says “rejoice evermore.” This can also be translated as “always be joyful.” The root word translated “rejoice” or “joyful” is the same Greek word that can also be translated as “grace” or “favor.” I think that you will agree that this is a wonderful word. I know that we do not always feel joyful. We are lambasted with negativity all of the time, and if we aren’t careful we can be depressed and joyless. In spite of all of the negative things that we hear, or read about, we can claim the joy that Jesus gave us when we were saved. The joy that we have is not a feeling. It is a gift – so claim it and do not give in to joylessness and depression. Second, it says “pray without ceasing.” We can be thankful that we have the opportunity of prayer at all times. By telling us to “pray without ceasing” Paul did not mean that we are to closet ourselves away from the world and pray. He meant that we are to live in attitude of prayer. It is of great joy to me that I know that I can talk to God through Christ at any time. I can think a prayer, for God knows what is on my mind. Perhaps unceasing prayer can keep us out of trouble. It not only reminds us that we can pray any time that we want, but that God is always aware of our prayers. Be thankful that, in His grace, God is always available to us. We just need to make ourselves available to Him. Through constant prayer, perhaps, we will be more available to God. Give thanks for the opportunity of unceasing prayer. Third, it says that we are to “give thanks in everything.” This can always be translated “give thanks in all circumstances.” We will not always feel thankful for all of the circumstances of life, but when we live in constant joy and when we have the opportunity of unceasing prayer, we can be thankful in everything. We should aim to be thankful people – period. Paul gives a good reason for us to be thankful people: “for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” God wants us to be thankful people. We just need to get our hearts right with God and people, and we will be thankful people. If you are a Christian, you have every reason to be thankful. All I have written here is available to you. Be thankful!!! Bro. Joe
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AuthorDr. Joe Beauchamp is the author of this blog and website. Categories
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