Giving Thanks in All Circumstances

Tuesday, December 9, 2014                                                 1 Thessalonians 5: 12-28

Suzanne Allen

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)

Circumstances were not good for the early believers in Thessalonica when they received this letter from Paul. They were being isolated and even persecuted for their belief in Christ. There was great pressure to turn back to the pagan life from which they had come. Paul understood well what they were experiencing because he had been run out of town himself for preaching Christ! Nevertheless, Paul ends his letter encouraging them to “Be at peace among yourselves..be patient..always seek to do good to one another…rejoice always…and give thanks in all circumstances” (verses 13-18).

Circumstances are good for us compared to the Thessalonians. We are blessed to live in a free country and to be part of a welcoming city and church community. I doubt if any of us is experiencing the kind of life threatening persecution for our beliefs that the Thessalonians knew and that many people around the world experience today.  But we too need to be reminded to rejoice and give thanks in all circumstances. When we are hurt, or sad, or lonely, or stressed out, or feeling despair, we know we are not without hope. God’s love conquers all, and that love is given to us by grace, not because we have earned it. No matter our circumstances, we always have a reason to rejoice and give thanks!

Prayer: Lord, help me to rejoice and give thanks in all circumstances this Advent season and always.

Daily Challenge: Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, whatever the circumstances, take time today to rejoice and give thanks for the hope that comes from God’s unfailing love.