Day 6 – Daily Devotional – January 10, 2025 – Give Thanks

READ 

1 Thess 5:16-18  Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in everything; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 

EXAMINE 

Hello, Bethel   A quick glance at these statements might lead us to think that these are cheesy, Christian “clichés” that have no grounding in the real world. “Good for a Hallmark card, but not for the craziness of my life,” you may say. However, Paul is not foolish enough to think that following Jesus won’t be difficult and include times when joy and gratitude are not easy traits to display, especially when surrounded by other people. In fact, Paul is reminding believers that we have a choice to make in how we handle all situations, struggles, and seasons of life.  We can either go our way, which leads to futility, or go God’s way, which leads to fulfillment. 

APPLY 

Paul is listing these commands as the “secret” of how we navigate the before mentioned “craziness of life.” We live the BIBLE WAY and reap the wonderful harvest that comes with obedience to God’s plan. As followers of Jesus, a person who chooses joy, stays in personal contact with God through prayer, and has gratitude in their hearts is going to find it a lot easier to face the twists and turns of life.  And guess what else happens? We will be able to ‘pass on’ the secrets of OUR success to those who are facing similar situations. Joy is a choice and prayer is a constant reminder that we are never alone, and gratitude propels us past the constant “noise” of life.

PRAY 

Take a few minutes and begin to thank God for EVERYTHING that pops into your mind: your teeth (if you still have them), the clouds, the clothes on your back, the squirrel you saw out your window, the lotion you received for Christmas…EVERYTHING! Take some time today to pray and reflect back on how God has blessed you over this past year. Thank Him for His rescue, His provision, His presence, and His love and mercy in your life. Commit to Him in prayer today that “I will choose joy” and ask Him to keep your heart soft and grateful as you love and care for others that come into your path.