Always!

Always!

Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16‭-‬18 KJV

In the midst of the worst pandemic in our lifetimes, we read today's extract and wonder what God could mean. These words were written centuries before the events of today, yet they speak as loudly as if they were written for our present generation. As I read, I consider carefully what the words mean, and what model of behaviour they seek to command. As you can see in the words, these are not for discussion, negotiation or persuasion, but they are expressed as commands. I then have the power to choose how to react or respond: accept and obey the commands or reject them. The choice is mine and mine alone.

1. Rejoice Evermore: In the midst of pain and loss; the pressure of duty to country, church and family, God commands me to rejoice. What this tells me quite loudly is that I cannot find what I am looking for outside of the One who commands it. If He commands a thing, it is because its fulfillment and possibility lie in and with Him. I am yet to see anything God comamnds that He does not supply grace and mercy for. If I will find joy in the midst of the most depressing situation, I must find myself in God first and foremost. When I am in God, it doesn't matter what else comes looking; as long as it finds me in God, I will be alright.

2. Pray without ceasing: I try to find a reason why I am to keep praying, without any assurance of the answer I seek, but nowhere here does God tell me He has to give me the answer that I seek. Why do I pray: is it to bribe God to see my point of view, or to pray His perfect will into my earthly space? Am I promoting mine or God's agenda? Prayer is a command to all who will see God glorified, and as I pray in line with His will, I am establishing His kingdom down here on earth, as it is in heaven. Let it be known today that God's will be prevail; my best service is to joyfully align with His will, so that my life can be a vessel through which that will can be promoted and celebrated.

3. In everything, Give Thanks: this is the bit we quote a lot, but additional context will help. I am to give thanks no matter what comes my way, not because it is palatable, but because it is God's will that I do so. What God wants me to do is to look away from the situation and focus on Him. It may be difficult at first, but when you have tried it your way several times and failed, it becomes clear that you are best served to depend on Him fully. He does not promise bright sunny days everyday, but He promises me His presence everyday, and that is enough for me. The sun will rise and set each day, but God's presence isn't subject to the weather. It is as constant as the nature of God Himself.

So, where is the place of situations and circumstances? Where is the place of problems and burdens? It's not that they do not exist; it is that I have found my anchor in someone that is more dependable than anything else around me. Situations change and are quite fluid, but the Word of God abides forever and He is able to hold me to the end of time. What else could I need if my eternity is secured? His time of favour is here.