1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Application:

Here is Paul the preacher again. Although it almost seems as if he is nearing the end of his sermon, he has much more to say. He peppers the Thessalonians with short commands, trusting the Holy Spirit to put meat on those bones and help them apply the commands more specifically. 

Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in everything.… Don’t stifle the Spirit.… Hold on to what is good. Stay away from every kind of evil. 

The commands are simple, but following them certainly isn’t! The only way we can consistently give thanks and rejoice is by knowing that God is working something out in our lives.

Echoing Ephesians 4:29-31, to build an authentic community, you must uplift people rather than tear them down. What comes out of your mouth is part of your new wardrobe, and it doesn’t include foul language (4:29), bitterness, anger, wrath, shouting, or slander (4:31). We must speak what is needed. While addressing real-life issues, our goal must always be to help and not to hurt. Our words must minister grace to those who hear (4:29). Don’t grieve God’s Holy Spirit (4:30). The Spirit’s joy, presence, and power will not be yours if you make Him sad when you speak.

Rejoice always!

Reference: Tony Evans, The Tony Evans Bible Commentary (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2019), 1175.

To God be the glory!

Our Lord Jesus Christ created everything! By Him, For Him!

“The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

Disclaimer

When God inspires me, I write blogs. Consider this writing as a Bible study. Like the Bereans in Acts 17:11, search the Scriptures to determine whether what I write is so. Always consult with your church ministers about biblical matters. I am also not a professional writer, so some grammar or spelling errors may be present. I try my best to write as efficiently as possible. Your brother in Christ, Ricardo

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My book, “Battle Strategy: God’s Plan Amid Chaos.” It’s packed with helpful insights into Bible study and understanding. You can get a free digital version on my website. Fifty percent of the proceeds from this book go to helping children. The book covers the main biblical points and salvation, so you’ll find something valuable. 

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