In the next verses, Paul writes, “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (5:16-18). How can you be joyful always? Not by centering your life upon circumstances. Circumstances will always change. However, if you center your life on God, regardless of what happens at work, regardless of what happens at home, regardless of what happens at church, you can be joyful. God is at the center of your being, and he does not change!
How then do you center your life on God? First, pray continually, as Paul says in 5:17 (1 Thessalonians). Second, give thanks in all circumstances, as he says in 5:18. As him for what you need. Thank him for what you have. The Christian life always has God at the center. Is God always at the center of your mind and thoughts?
- Mark Dever, The Message of the New Testament, 1 Thessalonians: The Second Coming
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