Near the end of his first letter to the church of Thessalonica, the Apostle Paul issued an exhortation that seems both inviting and impossible. He writes, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). This exhortation seems inviting because it calls us into an ideal and fruitful way of life, and it is a fitting response to all that God accomplished for us and granted to us in Christ. However, it also seems impossible because the standard is so high and our tendencies are so contrary to it. Can you think of even one day in which you have literally rejoiced always, prayed without ceasing, and given thanks in all circumstances? Perhaps I’m blind to the grace of God operating in my life, but I can’t think of one day on which I’ve reached this standard in more than thirty years of walking with Christ. Yet, perceived impossibilities aside, this way of life is the will of God in Christ J...
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