Rejoice, Pray, and Give Thanks in all Things

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (KJV) 16 Rejoice evermore. 17 Pray without ceasing. 18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Have you ever stopped to truly consider what it means to “give thanks in all things”? It’s not just gratitude for the blessings that make life easy and enjoyable—it’s gratitude for everything. Even the hard stuff.

Taking time to reflect, I finally understand the command to give thanks at all times. It’s not just when things are going good. It’s all things, but my joints are hurting, I am thankful I have all my bones to hurt. Lord, my bed is uncomfortable, I am thankful that I have a bed to be uncomfortable. It’s all things, and we get so caught up in the negative that we don’t realize there are also positive aspects. We’re thankful for everything, no exception. Your mercy and goodness endure forever. I don’t understand what’s going on right now, but your mercy and goodness endure forever.

Forever is never-ending. There is no time limit. It will continue to exist when I’m gone, just like it was there before I was born.

This is a reminder for all of us to shift our focus from our struggles to the blessings, big and small, that surround us daily. God is faithful, His mercy truly does endure forever, and His purposes are perfect, even when we don’t fully understand them.

Lord, forgive me when I focus on what I am going through without seeing that you’re moving, that you’re loving, that you are caring, that you’re my comforter, that I am never alone, that you are walking with me, even though it doesn’t feel great. Lord, forgive me when I focus on myself and not think about your people, how they are hurting, how they need you, how there is something missing in their lives, and they don’t understand what it is, and I have it. Forgive me when I forget that my purpose is to reach your people, Lord. You are my Lord and King. You are my peace, my shepherd, my guide, you are the one who holds me, and you hold me so I have the strength to hold up those who can’t hold themselves, those who can’t get past when they’re going through something and can’t see that you’re moving, you’re wonderful, you are loving.  Lord, you are Lord of Lord, you are the king of kings, Lord, you are a prince of peace, the Bible says you are wonderful, counselor, Lord, you are Emmanuel your word tells us you are here with us. Lord, there is none like you, none above you are God alone, and if we put anything above you even if it’s us,

I am thankful that you love us enough to be there for us despite my flaws, and my selfishness, despite us not seeing the big picture Lord, you are worthy, and my prayer is that I never forget.  In Jesus name, amen.

Take a moment to reflect on your own life. Can you find gratitude, even in discomfort or challenges? What blessings surround you that you might have overlooked? God’s enduring mercy equips us not just to persevere but to lift others up. Today, let’s share His love and hope with someone who needs encouragement.