Rejoice in Suffering

Rejoice always! Pray constantly. Give thanks in everything, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:16‭-‬18 HCSB

Always means always. Rejoicing in pain is difficult but doable. As we rejoice that our names are written in the lamb's book of life we are reminding ourselves we have an eternity. 1 Thessalonians speaks to the second coming of Christ in every chapter. Paul is bringing an eternal perspective.

Secondly pray constantly, in season and out of season. It is good to have a commitment to regular habits of action. Making aneffort to do what a Christian needs to do is important.

Wallowing in pain and misery is not a solution. Strengthen the limbs that hang down, lift up those arms in praise, open that mouth and give glory to God. Amen!

Yesterday I had a call from a dear friend who had lost her husband through divorce. He had treated her shamefully. Yet some 1w years later he sent her a letter of apology. I cried and cried. I was rejoicing with her. She wanted to know what to do. I told her to say thank you and discover why he wrote, one of his daughters helped. I suggested she as the daughter. Now, amidst this rejoicing Inreminded of my grief. I have been divorced longer, lost my daughter as well and continue to pray. I am having to stay faithful, continue to rejoice and press in to God.

Give thanks in all things for this is God's will. Scripture says that Jesus endured the cross for the joy that was set before Him. Hebrew 12:2. There is a joyous outcome for the trial we are encountering. Amen!