Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
(1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV)
How can I rejoice when I’m having “one of those days,” Father? How can I continually pray when I feel overwhelmed?
When I look to Jesus’ example, I find the answers I seek. He didn’t stay on His knees 24/7, but He did maintain an ongoing dialogue with You. He acknowledged that He would prefer to avoid His cross, but He willingly took it up because it was necessary.
He focused on the joy to come later, in due time.
I, too, can give thanks for the good things in my life, even when bad things are rearing their ugly heads toward me. I can keep up a dialogue with You as I go about my day, and I can be thoroughly joyful, knowing that all is in Your hands.
When we make joy, prayer, and giving thanks our habit, we are able to handle troubles with courage and grace. May we all be blessed with grace and courage daily. Having these will give us the strength we need to face the temptations ahead.
Blessings all!