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TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

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

Read: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Listen: 1 Thessalonians 5

TODAY’S MESSAGE

Gratitude doesn’t always come easily for Jesus’s followers. Life is challenging for new believers in the ancient city of Thessalonica. They suffer persecution for their faith in Jesus. Divisions arise within the church. They grieve over the death of beloved friends and family. The Apostle Paul writes a letter into these situations to help them grow and stand firm together in their faith. Paul reminds them of the incredible hope they have in Jesus Christ. In light of this hope, Paul teaches them to give thanks in every circumstance, including their difficulties. Joy, prayer and gratitude are to mark the lives of Jesus’s followers.

Gratitude may or may not come easily as we celebrate Thanksgiving today. We might face difficulties and grief. Our world can feel complicated, overwhelming, lonely and uncertain. Yet the hope of our salvation in Jesus is certain. No matter what circumstances we face, we can give thanks for what Jesus Christ has done for us through his life, death and resurrection. As we focus on God’s unchanging character of goodness, enduring love and faithfulness, the Holy Spirit opens our eyes to his presence and power in our situations. We can turn to him and thank him for who he is, what he has done and will do in the future. As we turn to him with trust, we can experience God’s joy and find the strength to give thanks in everything.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Read Psalm 100 out loud today. If you are gathering with family or friends for a meal, consider reading this Psalm at the table to declare God’s goodness, steadfast and enduring love, and faithfulness to all generations (Psalm 100:5). Take time to share with each other one thing you are thankful to God for in this season.

2023 SPIRITUAL PRACTICES

Join us all of 2023 developing a different spiritual practice each month. SPIRITUAL PRACTICES are intentional regular activities to deepen our relationship with God and mold us to be more like Jesus.

November is BIBLE MEDITATION. Keep track of our spiritual practices at beyondtheweekend.org/spiritualpractices.

Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.