Such an incredible command. “Rejoice always!” What a great reminder. “Pray continually.” These 2 things will lead us to, “give thanks in all circumstances.” God’s will for us is to be joyful. When we are filled with joy we cannot help but look at our circumstances and be thankful for the opportunities. Not all opportunities seem welcoming; however, it is in the new and challenging things that we mature and become well developed in our faith life. God wants us to trust that all is well because of what His son has done for us. Trusting in this reality brings about joy from within that we cannot contain. It leads us to continual prayer and no matter the circumstances we face we know we can be thankful to God.
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
God is saving us all the time. Whether we realize it or not. All of our circumstances are turning for our good when we allow God to direct us. We are His children, for whom He finds great joy in. He delights in us. His love for us cannot be measured. Through Christ’s birth, life, death and resurrection God’s grace and mercy cover our lives. Just as we should rejoice in Him, He is leading by example and rejoicing over all of us. We can hold onto the fact that our Father in Heaven is with us now and always. Having a perspective of joy in all we do will help us draw nearer to Him.
The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”
Zephaniah 3:17 NIV
Considerations for your planner:
- Have you rejoiced in the Lord today? Write down what rejoicing looks like to you.
- How do you look at the circumstances in your life? Do you see them differently from one to the next? Write down how leading with joy in all circumstances could change your perspective.
A Story of Rejoicing:
I was driving in my car a couple days ago listening to the song Sparrows by Cory Ashbury. I have heard this song so many times before, but this time something hit differently. I don’t remember the exact lyrics when it happened, but I was overcome with emotion.
Tears started to fall, I welled up inside, and a smile blazed across my face. I could feel the Holy Spirit. In that instant I said out loud, “Thank you God. I know I can trust you. I know you are with me.”
I am so grateful for these moments of intense and very clear recognition of God present with me. It is moments like these that I make extra special note of, so that I can call on them when hard times come. God is with me always. He will guide me through everything. I am grateful I get to rejoice for this reality.
- Anonymous
Strengthen the Christian Planner Family by sharing your experiences. We'd love to hear a story about God's work in your life. Use the form linked below to submit your story.
