Read I Thessalonians 5 Final Exhortation

Rejoice always (:16) pray without ceasing (:17), in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (:18) Do not quench the Spirit (:19) Do not despise prophecies (:20). Test all things; hold fast what is good. (I Thessalonians 5:16-21 NKJV)

Paul exhorts the believers to do what they should out of the certainty of their hope in Christs return.

He begins with joy as their constant countenance. Its beyond happiness. Joy is based on relationship with Christ. Joy comes with the consciousness of His work and grace done for and in us now and through eternity. The joy of our salvation is ones strength and evidence of communion with Christ. whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faiththe salvation of your souls. (I Peter 1:8-9).

Keeping this joy we constantly make our requests to the Lord, committing Him our care. Do so continually without ceasing. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

With joy comes thanksgiving out of gratitude to God. Makes it a life style for this is the will of God. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. (Psalms 100:4) Someone robbed the great Bible commentator, Dr. Matthew Henry, as he walked along a highway. Afterwards he told his friends there were four things for which he gave thanks. First, he was grateful that he had never been robbed before. After many years of life this was the first time he had been robbed, and for that he was grateful. Second, he said, "Though they took all my money, I am glad they did not get very much." That was something for which to be thankful. Third, he said, "Though they took my money, they did not take my life, and I am grateful for that." Finally, he suggested, "I am thankful that it was I who was robbed, and not I who robbed." There was a man who learned how to "overflow with thankfulness!" Gratefulness is a distinguishing mark of the mature believer.

In rejoicing and thanksgiving, the Holy Spirit leads us through impressions, convictions and by prophecies. We will not quench Him by our doubt, our indifference, the distraction of others and discouragement. We take heed when the prophetic word is given that confirm His Word. However, we are to test all things according to the Word and not be gullible. Hold fast what is good and edifying to the believers that glorify God

Prayer: Lord, in You I find my gratitude and rest wherever I am. You will make clear when You speak. My spirit is responsive when it confirms what You have impressed me with the witness of two or three.

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