God's Will For You

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” ~1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

What’s the shortest verse in the Bible? Many people will say, “oh, it’s “Jesus wept” from John 11:35 when Lazarus, the close friend of Jesus, died. That is true in English translations, but not in the original language of the Bible. Letter for letter, the shortest verse is 1 Thessalonians 5:16 “Rejoice always” or pantote chairete. It even sounds pretty as it rolls off your tongue. ‘PAN tah teh kieEE reh teh’.

This isn’t ground-shaking or anything, but when someone says ‘weep’ or ‘shortest’, my brain makes this connection and these two words come to mind: “Rejoice always”. I’m thankful for that - it’s easy to forget. Rejoice in good times and bad times, in sickness and health (sounds like marriage vows, doesn’t it?)…When Paul wrote these words, the Thessalonian Christians were under persecution by the Roman authorities AND their old Jewish friends and family. Can you imagine? Our difficulties pale in comparison.

God wants us to be filled with joy as we pray continually, giving thanks for EVERYTHING. Even the hard stuff. His Spirit gives the ability to do that, for we sure can’t do it on our own. We get wrapped up in our own pity-party. Ask Him to give you a little shake when that happens, to remind you of our joy in the Lord, our union with Him and increase your expectation of His coming! Rejoice! And again I say, Rejoice!”

Have a blessed day!

Bonnie
Blessed Be Boutique

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