We have documented here that the enemy has implemented a program of demoralization. That demoralization program encompasses much of what we see around us today, especially the racial division and lgbtqabcdefg programs. It is also interesting to note what the Lord's new years guidance was for 2023:
1 Thess 5:16Rejoice always, 17pray without ceasing, 18give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
If we are in a state of rejoicing, prayer and thanksgiving all the time, its going to be exceedingly difficult for the enemy's demoralization programs to succeed. Chalk up another point on the winning board for the Spirit of the Lord...
What we were told to do is simple but it is not easy. How do we rejoice when we prayed about something and all appearances are what is happening before our eyes is the exact opposite of what we asked for? Same goes for thanksgiving, its easy when everything is going well but what about times of adversity? The Lord covered those bases as well but even if you didn't know anything else beside 1 Thess 5:16-18, we find a way to do it. The options are: 1. quit/give up (not really an option) or 2. adjust/find a way to make it happen.
Also a point to add to this is notice it says nothing about our "feelings." We may feel like we have been punched in the gut (and sometimes you will) but we get ourselves back up off the floor and get ourselves back "in state" that is-a state of rejoicing, prayer and thanksgiving. What else did the Lord say on this?
Prov 3
5Trust in the LORD with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.
6In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make straight your paths.
and
Phil 4
do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
We have to make a decision up front that rejoicing, prayer and thanksgiving is a mental headspace we want to be in. That's our vision and our goal. The best version of ourselves looks like that (rejoicing, praying, giving thanks). It is worthwhile to consider the alternative, which is not much of an alternative at all right? Depression, hopeless and defeated? No thanks...
The enemy has plans to kill us, steal from us and destroy us:
John 10
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
But the Lord God our Master has other plans for us:
Jer 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
He told us what to do, now we just have to do it. The counsel He has provided for us tells us how he wants us to do our work as much as what the work is. We are lights in this dark world. The closest to Jesus some people will ever come is talking to you, me or any of our brothers and sisters. Its a big responsibility. In this dark, wicked world lets be the embodiment of light and hope we are supposed to be. A beacon to the lost and a lifeboat to the helpless. They need to see Christ in us and all the rest will take care of itself.
The Lord our God is very good.
Glory to God
grace and peace
