Today’s Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:17 NLT Tyndale 1996: Keep on praying.
What came first the chicken or the egg? As I read 1 Thessalonians 5:16 this morning “Always be joyful” I initially thought there is the affirmation for the day. “I am always joyful”. Even though I find that to be true I thought there are some that are in a place where they aren’t feeling joy. Then the very next verse hit me, Keep on praying. What comes first the joy or the prayer?
As I continued to read through first and second Thessalonians, I kept seeing other powerful affirmations that come from prayer such as:
- I am always thankful.
- I hold on to what is good.
- God calls me.
- I belong to God.
- God gives me grace and peace.
- I know God.
- I believe the Good News.
- I receive the undeserved favor of God.
- God gives me strength.
- I am confident in the Lord.
- The Lord of peace Himself gives me peace.
What wonderful things come as a result of praying without ceasing. Yes, we can always be joyful no matter what happens if we are praying and worshipping Him. I encourage you to try it. If you don’t know how to pray just go to Him and He is faithful and will do it for you. I used to pray rarely and I also rarely experienced joy. What came first?
Today’s Prayer: Father, thank You for giving us prayer. How awesome it is that we can meet You in prayer and be filled by Your Spirit. God, I welcome Your Spirit. I believe in the Good News that You have given. Help me to be faithful to Your calling and keep me confident in knowing it is You who do all things. I seek You in prayer not for what You do but for who You are. Thank You for Your peace. Amen
Tom Raines Jr.
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