Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Empowering Ministry 


Sherin Mathew
Immanuel MTC, Texas 

16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you 
When we struggle in life or have times of doubt, the above verses are difficult to adhere to or even comprehend. These verses are commands that we, Christians, should uphold during the difficult life circumstances and situations we encounter. Although it is easy to say, “rejoice always”, “keep praying about it”, or “in everything you do give thanks to God”, these verses teach us that without the Holy Spirit we cannot strive to uphold these commands. It teaches us that we need to cling to Him at all times. There are days when we cannot find joy within us to give thanks when we or someone we know is terminally ill, or continuously keep our mind fixed on Christ. However it is  in such moments of weakness  when His power is revealed. 2 Corinthians 12:9: But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.”

 

The Bible clearly states that joy, prayer, and thanksgiving are a part of God’s will in our lives. When we lack joy, a willingness and desire to pray, or even a thankful heart, we need to rely on Him. Truly knowing and having a relationship with Jesus Christ will bring forth joy, love, and thanksgiving. John 4: 14 states, “But whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him, will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”
We find everything we need and want when we follow Jesus’ commands for our life. Struggles are real, unforeseen sickness is inevitable, but despite our current state, Jesus Christ can give us,  peace in the midst of the storm, love that overlooks faults, joy that sustains any circumstance and grace that covers all our sins. Because of Him and all that He has done, we can rejoice always no matter what we  may be facing. We need to keep our thoughts aligned to His Word and give thanks regardless of how we feel. We need to be drawn closer to Him because of His love for us. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing” John 15:5.

PRAYER

God we pray that you draw us closer to You and Your Word so that You shine in our lives in all circumstances.  Amen.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
 
In Him we find everything we need and want.




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