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
What is God’s will for your life? That is a big question that each of us needs to answer. And there are many answers that you might find to that question. But this passage gives us at least a partial answer. The three actions Paul mentions here apply to all believers, regardless of the circumstances they find themselves in.
Rejoice Always
We would generally expect to rejoice only when something good has happened. We equate it with happiness that is based on circumstances. But Paul doesn’t say rejoice in the good times. He says to rejoice always. To know and experience the joy of God, available to us regardless of our circumstances.
Pray Continually
Most of us do good to pray for more than a few minutes a day. Praying continually may seem to be an impossible goal. Yet that is what Paul instructs us to do. But he is not referring just to those times when you have bowed your head and closed your eyes in prayer. Rather, he instructs us to stay in constant contact with God. No matter where you go, what you do or say, or what is going on around you, keep the lines of communication with God open.
Give Thanks In All Circumstances
And, finally, Paul tells us to give thanks in all circumstances. Notice that he is not telling us to give thanks for all circumstances. I do not have to be thankful that I am sick or out of work. But I can have a spirit of thankfulness even in those times. I can be thankful that God is in control and caring for me. My thankfulness is to him, not for my circumstances.
You have likely experienced challenging times. Maybe you are currently. And more probably await you. Your response will vary depending on the circumstances. But, in addition to seeking the Lord’s leading, we should always rejoice, pray, and give thanks. That is God’s will for us in all circumstances.
