"there has only ever been one perfect man, the Lord Jesus, and we killed him. I only missed a putt."
Rejoice
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. I Thessalonians 5:16-18Three verses but only 19 words yet so full of practical thoughts and challenges. Let’s look at the three key words.
Rejoice. The secret of rejoicing always is to keep everything in perspective. We rejoice because we know God. We rejoice because nothing can separate us from God’s love. We rejoice because nothing we do can make God love us less. It isn’t easy, but knowing God’s love can help us to rejoice despite injury, disappointment or failure.
Pray continually. What does this mean? Not that we sit all day with our eyes closed! I think it means two things. Regular times of prayer are to be part of our lifestyle. And we are to live our lives in an attitude of prayer – use dead time (travelling etc) to share our hopes and fears with God.
Give thanks. We have become accustomed to hearing athletes thank God for their victories. What about defeats? Can we be thankful for defeat? “Give thanks in all circumstances”.
A top American footballer once said to me: “I know that I am only in the team until they find someone stronger, faster or that they can pay less”. That is the reality of competitive sport. That is the arena in which you are called to give thanks in all circumstances. Why are you to do that? Look at the second half of the verses – because God wants you to.