Joyful Journal

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances;

for this is God’s will for in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV

I just love reading what Paul wrote in the New Testament of the Bible. I feel like I am reading his journal because he conveys such a frank and candid message about his life in view of God’s leading.

Many times, he encourages believers to rejoice in all circumstances. His words may give you a warm fuzzy feeling until you think about the circumstances in which he wrote them. After his conversion, Paul became on fire for the Truth -- the message of Salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Sharing that message cost Paul and the believers of his day much suffering. Many did not live an easy life.

Paul himself experienced imprisonment, beatings, extreme hunger, thirst, and other such atrocities. As he wrote to the believers in Thessalonica, a group called “Judaizers” persecuted them. And, yet, he still encouraged them to “rejoice.” What in the world?

In the book of Philippians, Paul tells how he has learned how to maintain contentment in all of those negative situations. He urged others to discover that same level of joy in their own lives.

I believe Paul wanted us as modern-day believers to discover this same truth. He gave us the formula: rejoice, pray, and give thanks continuously.  

What circumstances might challenge us not to rejoice? The death of someone close to us, illness, prodigal children, loss of property to name a few. Paul says rejoicing in these difficult times is God’s will for us. Knowing that gives us more courage to do so – to look for what God is doing in these situations and acknowledge his presence. Watch for him to work and watch for how he will grow us throughout any ordeal. Rejoice anyway.

Father, I know I need this lesson. Give us the strength to rejoice no matter what goes on around us. I thank you for the lovingkindness you show to us.

Susan Partida