Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you (1 Thes 5:16-18)
The Thessalonian believers were true missionaries. Their hearts burned with zeal for their Savior, who had delivered them from fear of “the wrath to come.” (1 Thes 1:10) Through the grace of Christ a marvelous transformation had taken place in their lives, and the word of the Lord, as spoken through them, was accompanied with power. With constant thanksgiving. Hearts were won by the truths presented, and many souls were added to the number of believers.
Joy as used in Paul’s letters here reflects the mark of a true Christian. the Christian (Rom. 14:17) and a fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22). It is often associated with the firm hope of the Christian (Rom 5:2–5; Rom 12:12). “Pray without ceasing” suggests a mental attitude of prayerfulness, continual personal fellowship with God, and consciousness of being in his presence throughout each day. Christians are marked by thanksgiving in all types of circumstances. (Eph 5:4, Eph 5:20 Col 2:7 Col 3:15, Col 3:17 Col 4:2). These verses are all talking about 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18.
Our joy, prayers, and thankfulness should not fluctuate with our circumstances or feelings. Obeying these three commands—be joyful, never stop praying, and be thankful—often goes against our natural inclinations. When we make a conscious decision to do what God says, however, we will begin to see other people and our circumstances in a new perspective. When we do God’s will, we will find it easier to be joyful and thankful. And most of all to love one another with “unfeigned love.” No pretending to love someone for some kind of private gain to ourselves… But the kind of love where you practice what you preach about the love of Christ and people know it. (1 Pet 1:22 Acts 4:13)
“Put everything to the test. [Heb 4:12] Accept what is good” (1 Thes 5:21)
Throughout life’s toils and trials the peace of God and the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ can be our consolation and support. The apostle challenged believers of his day to not become weary in well-doing, and pointed them to his own example.
Whatever happens, always be thankful. This is how God wants you to live in Christ Jesus. (1 Thes 5:18, ERV)
God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one of them to say ‘thank you?’