Rejoice, pray continually and give thanks!

 2 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

God expects us to rejoice in every situation, not because we pretend the situation is not dire, but rejoice because we know He is with us in ALL circumstances and His presence makes all the difference (ask Daniel, Meshack, Shadrack and Abednego). They found themselves in crazy situations, almost losing their lives but the Lord was with them. That made the difference! Which is why He expects us not to worry about the storms of life, but to pray continually, leaving those difficulties with Him, in order for Him to deliver us from them. He's already told us to bring all burdens to Him, as our yoke is heavy for us (Matthew 11:28).

This verse further tells us to give thanks. To give thanks because He is God and if He allows something to happen to us, it is because He already has a way out of it, and that way out, will bring Him honour and glory (Romans 8:28). So, in every circumstance, God is asking us to rejoice, pray continually and give thanks, as this is His will for us. Not to be grumpy and complaining all the time (ask some of the Israelites who couldn't even enter the promise land as a result of complaining). But to have a cheerful heart, resting in His embrace, trusting Him as a Father who will never disappoint.



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