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

I don’t know about you, but does this text seem a little unreasonable? “Always”, “continually”, “in all circumstances”? I’m supposed to rejoice and give thanks when I’m in pain, when the person I care about the most in all the world is dying, or when I’ve just lost my job? I’m supposed to pray all the time? Isn’t God asking a little too much?

Not really. We can “rejoice always” and “give thanks in all circumstances” because:

• God is at work in our lives – “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” James 1:2-4
• God is near – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. “Psalm 34:18
• God knows what he’s doing – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
• Our attitude makes a difference in the lives of those around us – “Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.” 2 Timothy 2:10

Okay, so we have good reason to rejoice and be thankful, but why “pray continually”? Because:

• God loves to hear from us – “The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but the prayer of the upright pleases him.” Proverbs 15:8 NIV
• Prayer draws us closer to God – “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” James 4:8
• We have to ask if we are to receive – “You do not have because you do not ask God.” James 4:2
• In His presence we will find peace, even in the storm – “You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You.” Isaiah 26:3 NKJV

So, today, no matter what comes your way, rejoice, pray, and give thanks. God is in control. You can trust Him.

And may “…the peace of God, which transcends all understanding…guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7 NIV.