In life, it is easy to let the pressures of daily challenges and uncertainties weigh us down. Moments of discouragement may tempt us to abandon prayer, while feelings of ingratitude creep in when our circumstances appear bleak. Yet, 1 Thessalonians 5:15-18 provides us with a blueprint for walking in the will of God.  

God’s will is not a mystery or hidden path; it is a lifestyle of rejoicing, ceaseless prayer, and constant thanksgiving. When we fast and pray, we align ourselves with this call, stepping into a realm of deep communion with God our Creator.  

Rejoice Always:

Joy is a fruit of the Spirit, and it reflects our confidence in God's sovereignty. To rejoice always does not mean ignoring life's challenges but choosing to anchor our hope in the Lord who never fails. When we rejoice in fasting and prayer, we shift our focus from problems to the One who holds the answers.  

Pray Without Ceasing:

Prayer is not confined to specific moments; it is the ongoing connection of our spirit to God. Ceaseless prayer allows us to invite God into every aspect of our lives. Persistent prayer is an act of trust that God hears, cares, and answers according to His perfect will. 

 

Give Thanks in All Circumstances:

Gratitude is the heart's acknowledgment of God's faithfulness. When we give thanks, even during trials, we declare our trust in His goodness and His plans for our lives.

  

By embracing these three pillars, rejoicing, prayer, and thanksgiving, we position ourselves firmly within God’s will. When we fast and pray, we are not merely performing a ritual but actively fulfilling God's desire for our lives. This alignment with His will brings peace, strength, and clarity as we navigate life.

Querido Padre Celestial,

Thank You for the trials that have helped me improve in rejoicing always, praying without ceasing, and giving thanks in all circumstances. I confess, I still have a long way to go to even approach complete obedience in these instructions. I don't really look forward to the future trials that You will use to perfect my faith and grow me in these weak areas. I do rejoice that You love me enough to discipline me, and I plead the blood of Jesus for the help of the Holy Spirit to obey and grow quickly without trials as painful as some have been in the past. I love you. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Is there someone who has done evil to you? Whether the wound is fresh or you feel that they still owe you for past harm, remember Pastor Jentezen’s exhortation on Sunday and declare, “I am not revenge, I am prayer.” Pray through the steps in today’s verse and ask God to show you how to obey regarding that situation. Praise God for who He is, and thank Him for His mercy toward you.