Give Thanks Always

“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

It might surprise some that a person who writes to encourage others sometimes feels discouraged, feels less than thankful, gets tired of dealing with life’s storms and feels like their faith is about to falter. But as is always the case with Jesus and His Spirit He gives the words that need to be heard by the heart to keep up the good fight and find words of encouragement to share. 

This week’s simple passage contains a powerful message that rests on three words: “always, continually and all.” The passage is found in Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonica church as part of his final instructions to the people, his words are more than a simple suggestion - they most definitely imply a standard of behavior the followers of Christ should strive for.

Be joyful always, at all times and in any event. 

Pray continually, continuing indefinitely in time with our interruption, without ceasing.

Give thanks in all circumstance, the very best, the very worst and everything in between the extremes. 

Whether our lives are currently filled with sunshine or storm clouds by the power of the Spirit we can be joyful. No matter what circumstances we are facing the one thing we can always do is pray - laying our needs down at Jesus’ feet and letting Him act on our behalf, He promises to supply us with an abundant life. Whether on the mountain top or in the valley, whether in a garden of abundance or in a dry and weary place there is something to be thankful because we are not alone - God is with us and we have each other. 

King David says: “I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies” (Psalm 23:4b). If David could find a reason for joy, the need for continual prayer and for being thankful - so can we. 

Make this season of your life a sacred space by always, continually and in every circumstance being joyful, prayerful and thankful.

A Prayer
Father - Thank you for your word that speaks love and encouragement into our hearts and lives. Help us to see the joy in life. When we feel like we can’t pray, gives us the words. Help us to be thankful always and especially in the hard times. In the name of Jesus - Amen.