WORD: {Rejoice!}

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

I was convicted today as I listened to a Graham Cooke sermon on rejoicing. I am constantly praying to God about things I need or want, things I'm worried about, things that I think should happen a certain way and most times without giving thanks to Him for exactly who He is--not just what He has given me or what He has done for me--but WHO HE IS. I fall victim to thinking about the circumstances in my life without including the power of the blood of Jesus. It is a daunting task to try and overcome all of the obstacles in life without the love of a Savior. When we think of our current life happenings WITH Jesus, there should be nothing but rejoicing because He has already overcome, He has already set us free, He's already set the perfect path, and He's promised peace and joy and love {etc}, when we choose to live this life with Him. We should rest and rejoice because we know the outcome is good--we know because we chose Him. It doesn't mean that the process of getting to the outcome isn't going to be hard but how empowering it is to know that we have the strength of Heaven behind us!

Lord, we want to live our lives rejoicing in exactly who you are. We thank you for your heart towards us, your intentions towards us, your faithfulness, your love, and your grace that we so desperately need each day. Thank you for using difficult circumstances to help us know the fullness we have in you and to teach us to stand for something and BELIEVE! Lord, we declare that we believe you are good. We believe that you are a loving God and a forgiving God, a God who always has our best interest in mind. We believe in your promises, your truth, and your Word. We rejoice and step into a place of thanksgiving because YOU. ARE. GOD!

"This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it."