Be joyful always…
Really? Even when it’s a cruddy rainy day or when I feel anxious or overwhelmed? What about when I simply have too much to do?
Yes, really, “…for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
…pray continually…
How does that work? My mind is busy with all kinds of ideas, plans, work, and interactions. That doesn’t feel like prayer.
Your life is a prayer when lived in me. Remember that “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a (wo)man remains in me and I in her, she will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
…give thanks in all circumstances…
Surely you don’t really mean ALL circumstances, do you?
I meant what I said. Where is your hope, in your circumstances or in Me? Don’t forget that I am sovereign and that I work “all things…for the good of those who love me and have been called according to my purpose.”
…for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thes. 5:16-18)
Quoted references: Nehemiah 8:10, John 15:5, and Romans 8:28
Connecting Dots...to God 
Sorry I’ve been away from reading your good blog!
Finding God’s will: as you’ve shown, in the essential matters, it is an easy thing to discover, and a simple thing to grab hold of:
give thanks
pray continually
rejoice always
= God’s will for us in Christ Jesus!
Now, may we embrace it with the joy He has for us!
Thanks for stopping by, Maria!
“…for the joy of the Lord is your strength…”
An amazing truth I have learned over the years is that you can can draw on the wellspring of joy within you, even in the most desperate circumstances. All you have to do is open your mouth and begin rejoicing in the Lord – even when you don’t feel like it – and your problems will shrink while your strength is increasing. It works for me.
Wonderful truth Larry. Have a joyful day!!
Oh, I love, love, love this, Judy–great reminders, thank you. God bless you abundantly–love, sis Caddo (PS–we’re almost to the weekend!)
Thanks for this! Very convicting and appropriate for what I am going through right now! Praise God for His use of you for the advancement of His Kingdom!
You’re welcome:). This post is in the category of “preaching to myself.” It’s truth I need to practice every day!
Ah, perhaps I should make a category like that… or maybe I should just remame my blog “preaching to myself” ; ) Thanks again and God bless you!