1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV

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

Reflection:

In this passage, Paul is encouraging his readers to live a life that is “continually” set on meeting God. Even though this word has the same root as the word continuously, there is a very fine difference between the two. The former denotes the idea of an ongoing series of events or occurrences that happen within very close proximity with one another, while the latter refers to a constant flow without break or interruption.  If Paul meant for us to be in a continuous state of prayer, then we would never be able to get anything else done. Rather, we are to be a people of continual prayer, both in our hearts, and in our minds, giving thanks to God and asking for the things of His Kingdom to come in real ways, as we go about our day-to-day life. It is in this way of living and breathing prayer that we are able to go out and do the things God has called us to, while at the same time praying for His powerful hand to be at work through it all.

Response:

Let’s go out today, praising God, and lifting up all sorts of prayers to Him, in every situation. May this be the way that we live every day, no matter what life brings!