More Than Bread Devotional for 11/23/11

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.  – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Oh, these little verses can be so pesky sometimes.  As we close in on the day set aside to give thanks, here is Paul telling us to give thanks in all circumstances.  Paul, the guy who was beaten, stoned (nearly to death), shipwrecked, thrown in prison and more, is challenging us to give thanks no matter what happens.  How is this even possible?

Remember all of those blessings and promises that we have talked about the last couple of days?  Those promise that even the worst situation is not the end.  Paul knew that nothing could separate him from God because of the life of faith in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:38-39), and so he knew that any trial or tribulation would not get the final say.  God works in all things.  He will see you through.  Be thankful for that!  Yes, in all circumstances.