Pithy and Profound Giving thanks
Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 KJV)
Christians are to rejoice evermore. Jesus is our example and He rejoiced even in the cross. “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2 KJV). Jesus “for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross”. Can you see the joy that was set down before Jesus? I think of the ultimate plan of redemption. God reconciling the world to Himself had a plan for salvation that could bring peace to all mankind. Jesus knew that the cross was the only way to save mankind from the wages of sin and death. Jesus looked beyond the cross to the inheritance that would be received by all who believe in God and accept His sacrifice for them. He was looking at giving believers eternal life with God. The eternal purpose was greater than the momentary suffering here on earth. The joy of the cross is the defeat of Satan, death and sin; and the victory of God, life and righteousness. Let us pray therefore for reconciliation of all mankind in which Christ died for and give thanks for the cross and Jesus Who gave Himself for us that we may dwell in peace with God, in heaven for eternity. O, rejoice evermore! Pray without ceasing and give thanks for this is the will of God.
Happy Thanksgiving, May God Bless you and all you know and love.
In Christ,
Greg