A Verse
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
A Comment
The command to “rejoice always” cannot be obeyed apart from the God of Peace who comforts us and give us confidence in the midst of trials and tribulations. Paul’s admonition is not a call to “Fake it until we make it.” He is not commanding us to deny the difficulty of our situation. Paul is not ignoring the reality of hardship. Instead, Paul is beckoning us to an obedience that can only be explained by the supernatural presence of the God of Peace.
A Prayer
Sovereign Lord, in our own strength, we are incapable of always rejoicing. Yet, in You, by your Spirit, we can rejoice always because while our situations change, You never do. Our hope is immoveable as long as it is in You. Grant us to see and experience this today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
A Blessing
May the Lord of peace Himself,
grant you peace at all times,
under all circumstances.
The Lord be with you all. Amen.
from Grace Be with You by Dale Ralph Davis
Rejoice Always, Even When It's Hard