DEVOTION//Rejoicing the day after

Last night my Bible study spent some time talking about 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."

Because it was election night, Paul's instructions took on special meaning. Rejoice. Pray. Give thanks. Always. Continually. In all circumstances.

Even when a long election cycle hasn't yet come to an end. Even when every vote won't be counted until later this week. Or longer. Even when there are threats of court cases to extend the final outcome of this election further. Even when our favorite candidates don't win election.

"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances. "

Why? "This is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."

The will of God that wants everyone to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4) convinces that because of his immeasurable love for us in Christ Jesus, he has this pivotal point in our history well in hand. No matter the outcome of the election, he is still the Lord of nations.  No matter the outcome of the election, he has plans in place to bring blessing to his Church and to those who are not yet part of his Church.

With that as our focus, there is no room for handwringing, fear, or complaint. "In Christ Jesus," we are set free to rejoice, pray, and give thanks. Always. Continually. In all circumstances.