stephen R Harrison

JOY 365: Day 5

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. -1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

One gentleman who has been visiting the church asked about joining a discipleship group. I connected him with a D-Group leader, and he invited him to that and a prayer lunch today. The gentleman showed up today, thoroughly enjoyed his time, and will be attending the D-Group later this week. The men prayed today about several things, but an answered prayer happened before anyone prayed. I noticed it right away. He was sincerely thankful. The gentleman needed friends in the Lord as he and his wife were new to the area. They had felt lonely and struggled to find fellowship. The prayer time was his answered prayer.

First Thessalonians 5:16-18 are short but connected. Rejoicing, praying, and giving thanks are things we all need. Having others with whom you can rejoice, pray, and thank God is vital to our spiritual growth and health. His joy brought me joy. I called him a few weeks ago to pray before he had a minor heart procedure. Afterwards, we thanked God together and rejoiced because of God’s mighty hand of protection and healing. That created a bond that honestly changed our interactions on Sundays. Lord, help me engage in daily prayer, rejoicing, and thanking God with others, because this is your will for my life.

Who can you pray with today? With whom can you rejoice? What can you thank God for with another believer?