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

—1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Where does your heart live? That's what these verses remind us to ask ourselves. They challenge us to notice where we spend the most time and what we focus on most in our hearts. Is there a constant awareness in our lives that God is present? Is he the unseen but always present companion in all our ups and downs? Or is God with us when it is convenient and gone when things are busy, or you feel that everything is going well? Joy comes from knowing we are never alone. Prayer is the ongoing conversation we have, spirit to Spirit, child to Abba, human with God. Thanksgiving and joy are great reminders that we have been lavishly blessed, regardless of what our temporary outward circumstances suggest. Being joyful, praying continually, and giving thanks in all situations is God's will for us. Why? Because practicing these three things orients us away from the momentary challenges that don't compare to the glory that he in us with Jesus (Romans 8:18-19).

My Prayer...

Precious and Righteous Father, thank you for being with me, always. Please, dear Abba, use the Spirit to nourish in me a deeper appreciation and a more profound awareness of your presence. May my life reflect the joy you have given me by saving me through your grace. And may my heart always give thanks for my home with you in anticipation of the day when that home is fully realized. Through the name of Jesus, my Savior and friend, I pray. Amen.