Rejoice! Pray! Give Thanks!

Posted by lindseyuhl on Nov 12, 2010 in Daily Bread | 2 comments

As many of you know, I recently gave birth to our son Nicholas. Joe and I have been anxiously praying for him before he was even conceived, praying for his safe arrival, and now praying for him to grow up to be a strong Godly man. Now that Nicholas is here, I am drawn to this verse, as I am rejoicing, praying, and giving thanks to God for our little boy! I have been struck with an overwhelming sense of joyfulness and thankfulness that I want to shout out from the rooftops! I find myself awestruck at our little man and thank God daily for allowing me to be his mommy and bringing Nicholas into our lives.

While I am in a stage of joyfulness, there are others in life situations that range from wonderful circumstances to challenges we could not fathom. Among us there are those rejoicing at new job opportunities, while others are struggling with job loss. Some are rejoicing at the birth of a child, and others are struggling with the loss of a loved one. No matter what life situation you are currently rejoicing in or struggling with, this verse teaches us that we should rejoice, pray, and give thanks no matter what the circumstance. It is definitely MUCH easier to rejoice, pray, and give thanks when in a positive circumstance, but God wants us to do so no matter what the circumstance.

During my senior year of high school, my dad lost his job of 20+ years due to “downsizing.” It was hard on my family as the main provider was now unemployed. My mom worked part time but did not have the hours to cover the income my dad was bringing in. Though my family went through this challenging time, I never remember my parents giving up or turning on God. Both of my parents continued to show their love to our family and do what they could to provide. They continued to attend church, to teach Sunday school, to volunteer at church, and most importantly, to pray. They were thankful for all we did have and what they could provide during the trying time. I am not sure how my parents were able to see the good in the circumstance, instead of blaming God. They were great examples of what this verse commands us to do – rejoice, pray, and give thanks no matter what “storm” life throws at you.

As we approach this season of thanksgiving, remember that God is always there in all circumstances. He is constant, and in all things, God wants us to rejoice, pray, and give Him thanks.