A Needed Conversation
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:5
INSIGHT
A pandemic, wildfires, and political unrest are a few reminders of why we won’t soon forget the year 2020. Clearly, we are all exposed to some sort of circumstance today, whether public or personal. Responses to them will vary.
In sending his comforts and encouragements in his first letter to the Church at Thessalonica, Paul addressed things such as preparing to act in adverse times or tests of faith. He reminded them that to in order be a genuine church, they needed to be happy, always praying, and thankful. As individuals, we are essential, working parts of that genuine Church. It is not only important for us to rejoice but vital.
First off, there’s the call to rejoice always. This is tough to do when adversity gets going. However, to rejoice is not to display something in us as celebratory. In no way are we being called to be manufacturers of happiness, grinning and bearing it as we drum up a fake smile all the time. Paul’s directive to the Thessalonians was less about sustaining a happy disposition and more about hope. God is going to deliver you a victory over hardship. Though getting there may be hard, God never strays from His good plans for us. He is ever-present and always available to us. We’re able to be in constant conversation through the Holy Spirit.
What we have through Christ is a covenantal conversation with God. Because we have the opportunity for that ongoing, up and down, unconditional conversation with God, there is always a reason to rejoice. God allows us to pick up where we left off and knows just what needs to happen. Being a follower of Christ presents this very unique opportunity that exists within a faith. When we are in a covenantal conversation, the Holy Spirit is with us.
Praying continually does not require constant talking. It does not suggest periodic praying but conversely factors in and welcomes the sporadic way of our lives and ourselves. It entails leaning on God in all circumstances. This is marked by meditation, listening, journaling, and anything you need to communicate to God. Furthermore, it includes spiritual connection with fellow believers and not necessarily you and God in a vacuum. Because it is relational rather than regimented, we can marry up our prayer to our joy. Born out of the two is gratitude.
Lastly, Paul reminds the Thessalonians to give thanks in all circumstances. He challenges them to instead of grumble about hardship, to be thankful for the reasons behind such things such as persecution, adversity, or puzzling times. To paraphrase that piece of wisdom, turning our backs to the sun always keeps the shadows in front, while facing the sun places them behind us. As accounted for in The Gospel of John, the light shines in the darkness. Even in the darkest hour, God is there and at work for you.
REFLECTION
How are you responding to your current circumstances?
Describe some examples of God fulfilling promises to you in the past. What might He have been teaching you and why?
PRAYER
Father God, may you help me hitch my outlook to You. Draw me close so that I can experience how You are shaping me. Allow me to hear Your Word. Keep me vigilant in weathering through my circumstances. Lord, I thank you so much for how You love me. I thank you so much that You desire a relationship with me. Steady my path in order that I live to praise You alone. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Port City writer Adam King wrote today’s devotional.
