Monday, October 8

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Devotional:

God invites us to pray no matter what (even in the good times)!

Paul is talking to the church at Thessalonica.  He is letting them know how much he misses them and that he’s encouraged from hearing great reports of them from Timothy. Paul encourages them to continue to live for Christ as they have and in even greater ways.

Paul’s final instructions to them includes todays verses (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) – Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

As I read these verses, a question came to mind.  I wonder if God is asking us to pray continually because He wants to deepen His relationship with us.  Just like in a relationship with someone, one of the ways to deepen that relationship is through honest, heartfelt conversation – a back and forth dialogue…talking, listening, asking questions, etc.

Often in prayer, I come to Him with requests and thanksgiving.  Most times with requests.  I spend more time talking than listening.  More time asking for what I think I need rather than asking Him what I need in a particular situation.  I will thank Him for what He has given me, but I really do not take time to dwell on all the ways He has blessed me.  The focus of my prayer is, most often, on me and not Him.

Today’s takeaways for me are rather simple.  Spend more time communicating with God. This would include listening (I believe this is a big part of what prayer should be).  To pray no matter what (in good times and bad).  To let Him know I am thankful for how He has blessed me, how He is with me always.  Enjoy a good laugh with Him.  Share my heart with Him. Let Him know what is bothering me, what I am looking forward to.  To talk to Him like he is my best friend.

Please join me today in experiencing God in a greater way by carrying on a dialogue with Him.

Pastor Jon