Tuesday's Thought of the Day !!

Always be joyful.  Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NLT)

Always.  Never.  All.  What do these three words have in common?  There is no leeway in them.  They are the extreme.  Paul didn't say be Joyful unless....  He didn't write that we should pray most of the time.  He was not adamant about being thankful under the right circumstances.  No, he said do these things every single time you are presented with the opportunity.  Lets look at what Paul has in mind for us.

ALWAYS be joyful.  If you think this to be an impossibility, it could be because you confuse joy with happiness.  Happiness is an emotion that depends upon our circumstances.  Joy is something God will give you if you will accept it.  It will bring more happiness during good times and peace and assurance during the low times.

NEVER stop praying.  Yes, you will sleep.  Yes, you cannot simply talk to God all day and forget about the things that have to be done.  But remember that prayer is not just talking.  It's a conversation between you and God.  Conversations sometimes have lulls.  Sometimes there is silence.  But in conversations there will always be talking or listening.  When not speaking to God, live your life so that you are still connected and can hear Him if and when He decides to speak to you.

Be thankful in ALL circumstances.  Thankfulness is a decision.  We can choose to be unthankful or thankful.  We can choose to complain about what we have or be content with whatever God has given us.  The key to having better days is to be thankful.

These three things are very important in our lives.  I don't care what some people might say, God could care less how much money you have or how nice a house you live in or car you drive.  His desire for you is greater by far, eternal even.  He wants you be joyful, connected with Him and thankful.  May you be blessed with these gifts today.

In the love of Christ,

greg