Thursday, December 31, 2009

Be Joyful Always


Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:13-14,16-18

Our joy, prayers, and thankfulness should not fluctuate with our circumstances or feelings. Sometimes we may feel as if God is 1000 miles away. Sometimes we may feel as if our prayers are bouncing off the ceiling. But what does God promise? He promises to never leave us, nor forsake us. And we have to ask ourselves: do we trust our feelings, or do we trust the Word of God? Obeying these three commands - be joyful, pray continually, and give thanks - often goes against our natural inclinations. When we make a conscious decision to do what God says, however, we will begin to see people and our circumstances in a whole, new perspective. When we do God's will, we will find it easier to be joyful and thankful. Imagine that.

Blessings to you upon this new year,

J.H.

2 comments:

  1. Thank you for this one! Last night we got eyes rolled at us, when we got the giggles after Stella dropped the baking soda!

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