Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks
Life has been a whirlwind lately. It doesn’t happen all the time, but sometimes it feels like all my worlds are at full throttle at the same time. It has felt that way these past few weeks. I know time will slow down and I know these are the moments that pass, but I don’t want to rush to the next day or the next moment. I want to be present in the here and now, no matter how hectic or stressful it may seem. I don’t know if you have those days, or how often they may come, but Rob reminded me that it is these moments when we need to double down in our rejoicing and thanks.
I was chatting with a fellow soldier today and we shared one of those nervous laughs as she is entering a new leadership role in the military at the same time that I am in my civilian job. When everything seems to be thrown at you and you feel tested, you have to pause and give thanks to God for the opportunity to “grow” and “learn”. We don’t learn when things are easy. We don’t appreciate the calm unless you have lived through a storm. Imagine if in all the times you are tested if you paused and rejoiced over the opportunity to grow and learn? I needed to hear that as much as she did.
I know of many that are suffering through personal illness or tragic illness of a loved one. I don’t think there is anything more painful than watching a loved one suffer. I think about how many times I take for granted the quick hug as the girls leave for school or hearing I love you on the phone when I am traveling. Those precious moments are not taken for granted when that same loved one is ill or hurting. You hold on to every hug, every squeeze of a hand, every I love you. Take time to give thanks for each of those moments in the here and now.
Finally, I have seen affirmations time and again that Rob’s desire to pay it forward and help other Veterans find healing is the path directed by God. It happened again this week. I can only lay credit where credit is earned, in God’s hands. I have prayed continually for not only this healing, but for continued purpose. This is nothing short of answered prayers. Chance meetings are not chance, people are put in our path for a purpose, and God’s will for us prevails above all else. “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, NIV)
Today, I pray that you rejoice in the gifts and not dwell in the negative or the sorrow. Pray without ceasing and give thanks for the things that you may overlook in the hectic rhythm of your days. Above all, I pray that you be open to the direction and path laid out for you by God.
