Some things about God’s will may seem mysterious and hard to determine, but His Word makes clear that these three activities are always in God’s will.
1. Be Joyful
“Rejoice always” means all the time, not just when circumstances favor us. In the good times, in the bad times, and all the in-between times, choosing to be joyful is always in God’s will. Rejoicing always doesn’t mean denying feelings, but instead, choosing to rise above them in the power of Christ. Remember, joy is a choice.
2. Be Prayerful
To pray without ceasing doesn’t require hitting the floor on your knees every five minutes. It’s an action–and an attitude–an attitude that recognizes God’s presence and activity every moment of our lives. Sometimes prayerfulness means uttering a ‘Help” cry to God in a crisis. Other times, it’s a whispered thank you or praise prayer in awe of God’s goodness and faithfulness. Some prayers may connect others to the hem of Jesus’ garment, as we cry out to God on their behalf or even utter “silent” groanings that only God hears. But at all times, prayerfulness is recognizing who God is and whose we are in Christ. Being prayerful is always God’s will.
3. Be Thankful
God is the giver of every good and perfect gift (James 1:17). And He gives us so much. Giving thanks in everything may differ from giving thanks for everything. I may not want to give thanks for a car wreck or a job loss, but I can choose to give thanks in those situations, being grateful and confident that God will work out all things for my good in His timing (Romans 8:28). It’s a matter of semantics, but God loves it when we are truly thankful. It doesn’t take but one mission trip to a less fortunate country or a visit to a homeless shelter to realize how blessed we are. Being thankful to God is always in His will.
Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, NKJV).
My Personal Prayer for You
Lord, so many things about life are confusing to us. Trying to figure out Your will at times leaves us with question marks. But because we are believers, You have given us Your Word, Your Spirit, and a personal relationship with You that enables us to develop a strong trust and dependency on You. Help us to be constant in these three activities: being joyful, prayerful, and thankful in every area of our lives. Thank you for the sweet relationship You give us as Your children because of what Jesus did for us.
Day-votedly Yours,
Rebecca
It’s Your Turn
Are you willing to engage in these three activities daily? It will not only change you; it can change others around you. I enjoy hearing from readers. You can always write me through my contact page. Just fill out the basic name and address info, and then the email will come to me. Your name or info will never be shared with anyone without your permission.
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