Give Thanks In All Circumstances

             Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (I Thessalonians 5:16-18) 

            November began yesterday, but yesterday is also when I wrote this. I tend to forget to write “a day ahead.” I’ve already begun the gratitude journal that I mentioned a few days ago, and the only thing I’ll say with regard to these journals is the reminder that my goal is 1000 items for which I’m thankful listed by the end of November. If you want to take the challenge, you can change the number of items or the time period as you so choose.  

            But whether or not you are taking this challenge with me, today’s passage gives us a better challenge. He says to rejoice always, pray continually and give thanks in all circumstances. There’s no keeping count! What he says next is the real focus. Rejoicing, praying, and giving thanks is God’s will for us. I’ve known people who have struggled with the question of what God’s will is. I can sympathize. It seems to me that a major source of drama in my life has to do with what God wants me to do and/or whether or not I have done it well enough or long enough.

            Paul’s answer to What is God’s will for me? is “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances.” If you don’t know what you’re supposed to do about X, rejoice that God does know. Talk to God about it, and thank Him for His direction, for your not knowing, for the opportunity to trust Him… Each answer Paul lists involves communicating with God. You can rejoice and give thanks even while you’re pleading with Him for answers. Rejoicing doesn’t mean feeling no pain. Giving thanks doesn’t mean you’re happy, but that you are content (contained, in control of yourself.)