“STAYING IN THE WILL OF GOD”
I Thessalonians 5:16-18 – Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Do you find yourself always complaining about what is wrong in your life instead of appreciating what is right in your life? Are you the one who always looks at the glass as being half empty instead of it being half full? Are you the one who always expects the worse in your situation instead of hoping for the best in your situation? Do you often blame the devil for what you perceive as a problem instead of it simply being God protecting you from unseen danger? In order for you to stay in the will of God, you are commanded to rejoice always, pray continually and thank Him for everything!
In the book of 1 Thessalonians, Paul praised the Thessalonians’ faith; defended his ministry against outsiders’ attacks; and laid down basic theology about righteous living in a decaying culture, and the final hope of all believers, both living and dead—eternity with God. In this final chapter of 1 Thessalonians, Paul also revisited Christ’s warnings by reminding his readers that there are strong, specific commands for life. And that there are some specific ways to display the changes Christ brings into your life. When Christ is in your life as Lord, Ruler and Savior, your life is no longer the same!
In verses 16-18 it speaks on the inner attitude that the Gentiles needed then, and we as modern-day Christians need to maintain today! It says that you are to be joyful always, pray continually and give thanks in all circumstances.
So let’s take a closer look at your inner attitude…
You and I know that even though you profess that you are a child of the King, Holy Ghost-filled, water-baptized and Blood-bought, you are not always joyful in the situation and circumstances that you often find yourself in. Am I right? Look at the word. It says “ALWAYS”! Listen, your joy is not bound by circumstances or hindered by difficulties. Paul reminds you that you have a part in this joy. It is a choice, a deliberate response that focuses on the grace and goodness of God. The joy that you have, the world didn’t give it and the world can’t take it away! This is one of the ways to stay in the will of God.
When Paul suggests, never stop praying, he is not speaking of non-stop prayers but instead he refers to the attitude of prayer or reverence before God. Your life, as a believer, should be a life of righteousness. Your approach to relationships and responsibilities should be such that you maintain a constant attitude of being in God’s presence. That means you will pray often and about many things, including requests, praise, and thanksgiving! Maintain that attitude of respect and honor for God because He is always listening! This is one of the ways to stay in the will of God.
Lastly, you must recognize God’s eminence in all events. No matter what it looks like and no matter what it feels like, God is still good and He is still God! He’s too wise to make a mistake. And He is too kind to do evil. He is in control and He doeth all things well! You must learn how to thank Him in the good times and the bad times; when you are up and when you are down; when you are well and even when you are sick. You are commanded!
When you can agree with God that He knows what’s best for you, then you can begin to trust Him and thank Him for everything! This is how you stay in the will of God.
BBlessed and Let Love Abound!