The Joy of the LordSample

Joy, Prayer and Thankfulness by Pastor Lisa Kai

Senior Pastor of Inspire Church – Oahu, Hawaii

Scripture

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, "Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus."

Observation

Paul wrote this letter while he was in Corinth and his main purpose is to encourage and reassure the Christians there.  He urges them to “always” be joyful,  “never” stop praying and be “thankful” in all circumstances.

Application

Thank Paul for that encouragement!  Often times, we all need reminding about how we should act and think.  Don’t you love it when you’re in a season when nothing is going right, things don’t seemed to have changed, you’re always complaining about what you don’t have, or just having a bad attitude this week.  When you know you can’t do anything about it, what should we do?  

Paul says to “always” be joyful!  How do you find joy in the midst of pain, conflict, and frustration?  Remember, God can give you joy and all you need to do is just ask.  I heard a message one day and the pastor said if you want “joy,” give.  When you give whether its money, time or a smile this will make you joyful.  

Then he goes on to say “never” stop praying.  Have you found yourself praying for something over a year or possibly maybe for over 10 years now?  Seems like forever and sometimes you feel hopeless.  Well, you need a Paul right now to speak to you and tell you “NEVER” stop praying.  Keep praying until God answers your prayers.  

Lastly, Paul says “be thankful” in ALL circumstances and that means that thing that you’re going through right now.  We do have many things to be thankful for, let’s start with your eyes because you can see, right?  Now your nose, I’m sure you smell that pizza and garlic bread.  Can you tell what I’m craving for?  You get what I’m saying, there are lots to be thankful for.  Plus, he wants to hear from you.

Love what he says at the end of this passage, “This is God’s will.”  Yes, it is His will that we must be joyful, thankful and to pray.

Prayer

Jesus, we are so thankful for You and for all that we have.  We continue to choose joy over all our circumstances and we surrender them to You and ask that Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Reflection 

1.  Give 10 things away (smile, money, time..)

2.  List 10 things you are thankful for?

3.  List 10 prayer needs.