The Will of God in Everything

I Thessalonians‬ ‭5:16‭-‬18‬ [16] Rejoice always, [17] pray without ceasing, [18] in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

The Apostle Paul gave some very simple instructions in these verses. I did not say easy. As a matter of fact, it's not only not easy, it's impossible; because the only way we can truly do this is if we do it by the power of the Holy Spirit. The Lord has to do it through us, and in order for that to happen we must know Jesus as Savior and Lord. So for those of us who claim to know Him, we have no excuse. We can rejoice always (it doesn't say we have to be happy always). We can pray without ceasing by continually being mindful of God's presence in our lives and talking to Him, in Christ Jesus; and we can give thanks in everything. Now, I want us to pause for a moment and reread that last part, "give thanks in everything". Paul did not say we should give thanks FOR everything, but IN everything give thanks. God is not a God who does not understand or know our pain. He knows that in this life we will suffer painful circumstances. Afterall, those situations and circumstances have to get by Him before they affect us. We all will suffer some kind of dysfunction in relationships, a loss of some sort, whether the loss of a loved one or some material things. Some of us may suffer injury or illness. The bottom line is that we live in a fallen world, filled with sin and evil. However, we also have a God who gave us His Son. Jesus came, suffered beyond anything we've ever suffered and gave His life for us. The wonderful news is that He didn't stay in the tomb. No, on the third day He rose from the dead. Today, for those of us who know Him, because we have believed and called on Him, we can truly give thanks in everything, regardless of our circumstances. Why? Because we have eternal life, we have been forgiven of all our sins. He has given us grace, mercy, and a home in Heaven. These are all things that are far greater than anything we could receive in this world, and far greater than anything He allows us to suffer; and I'm sure we can add to the list of blessings that He has bestowed on us. ‭‭"Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His Name." (Hebrews 13:15) Let us also not forget those very important words that the Apostle wrote at the end of today's verses, "For this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

Today, God extends an invitation to you to accept His free gift of salvation (Romans 6:23). Will you accept it? Anyone who calls on Jesus, by faith, in repentance, confessing your sins, will receive eternal life. Do not put off calling on Him, and receive His free gift of salvation today (Romans 10:13).