Life Happens

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18  

          Some folks spend years trying to find out what God’s will for them is. Well, here is part of it. There are two words that stand out to me – all circumstances. That is difficult to do most of the time. It is only when we spend time with God and allow ourselves to grow spiritually that we come to that place. Thanking God for a trying or even life changing set of circumstances can tend to be the last thing we would do, but all things happen for a reason and God is mindful of everything that touches us. He will see us through any and all circumstances.

          I believe it is when we take the time to rejoice, pray and give thanks for said circumstances we find peace. It’s the kind that scripture refers to as the “peace that passes all understanding” (Philippians 4:7). God is watching and is only a prayer away. Rejoicing and giving thanks in spite of what is happening to us is a sign that spiritual maturity is taking hold and is changing us. It is then that we can be an example to those around us. It doesn’t mean we don’t feel the weight and pain associated with our circumstance; it means that we recognize in our heart and mind that God is truly in control and nothing will happen to us that He will not enable us to endure. He didn’t take us this far to leave us. He loves us and wants us to grow in grace and knowledge. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

·       Philippians 4:6-8 – “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things.…”