1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Paul wrote to the Thessalonians the above instructions. The Thessalonians were confused about the return of the Lord. They were also undergoing difficult times. Even Paul, himself, was having difficulties. He reports that he had longed to come to them to strengthen them in their faith, but Satan hindered him. [1 Thessalonians 2:18]
Paul’s instructions seem a bit odd in the face of such things–confusion, difficulties, persecution, and Satan’s hinderance, but Paul understood that only the power of God in our lives will overcome such things. His instructions are a pathway to finding that power.
First, we are to be joyful always. Paul knew that in joy we find strength. “The joy of the LORD is your strength.” [Neh 8:10]
Second, he told us we are to pray continually. Jesus said that “whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” [Mark 11:24]
When we pray to God for wisdom that overcomes confusion, He will give it. When we ask for peace during difficulties, He will grant it. Paul also knew that if we need power to be an overcomer, we must “give thanks in all circumstances.”
Paul, David, Daniel, and Jesus understood the power that flows into and through our lives when we live a life of thanksgiving to God. It is power to overcome. It is also God’s will for us in Christ Jesus.
