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
Does God really expect me to be joyful, prayerful, and thankful in everything?
- What about when my head is pounding and feels like it will explode at any moment, do I need to be joyful?
- I just lost all my files or an important document I was working on. Do I need to be thankful?
- My family is going through a major crisis. How can I be joyful?
There will be trials and problems in life. Since Adam and Eve’s sin, we face circumstances we don’t like. God does not say we must like everything coming our way. He does want us to learn, grow, be a testimony through each and every thing we do.
Don’t go around downcast and grumpy about what is happening to you. It does not help you and it brings others down. Look and be thankful for the good points in life.
When your head is pounding, about ready to explode, and you have a mile long to do list, start thanking God for the blessings you have enjoyed throughout your life. There are many people facing the same problem or worse. Don’t be pulled down. Be joyful for what you have.
Pray continually. God does not expect you to sit and pray all day, everyday. He does want you to have a prayer on your heart and mind. As things come to your mind, pray for them with thanksgiving. Praise God as you give Him your request. Make praying as natural as breathing. Work at making prayer a regular part of your day.
How can I be thankful for losing my files or important document?
Think of it this way. How can I not be thankful, when I have blessed abundantly. Earthly things are important, but do not compare with spiritual blessings. Use your problems as opportunities to be a testimony. Don’t waste time being upset and aggravated over things you can’t change. Put your time and energy into what will matter for eternity.
My family is in crisis. How can I be joyful, when life feels like it is falling apart?
“God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV
God will not allow more on you than you can handle. He is there to give you help and strength. You can be joyful by going to God for your joy. The joy of the Lord is my strength.
“Nehemiah said,… Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Nehemiah 8:10 NIV
Look for the positive things in life.
Be thankful and praise God continually.
Share the joy of the Lord through your positive response to life’s problems.
