Joy Is Closer Than You Think

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

─ 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Jason bowed his head, trying to resist the emotions rising from within his heart as his pastor read verses from 1 Thessalonians 5. He knew what was coming next, and his pastor’s instruction pierced his soul. “We are commanded to be joyful, pray continually and give thanks,” his pastor said. “That doesn’t change when life gets hard.”

Jason reflected on the past month. Life had become hard—well, harder than usual. He was certain the emotional roller coaster he’d been on had put a lot of strain on his relationships—personal and professional. He admitted that his occasional griping and complaining about his situation pushed others away. People were probably starting to wonder where the real Jason had gone. Jason wondered where he had gone too. He’d pulled up anchor in the middle of a storm and lost his mooring and his joy all at the same time.

Bowing his head right there in church, he asked God to forgive him and rededicated his life to Christ.

It’s not easy to keep our eyes on God when the storms of life are threatening to sink our ships. However, God is our anchor, and His joy is available through constant prayer and thanksgiving. He will steady us through any tempest.

Today’s One Thing

Take a moment right now and think of something you’re truly thankful for? Spend the next few minutes in prayer, giving thanks to God.

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