1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Overview:
Be joyful! Don't stop praying - be in an attitude of prayer at all times! Be thankful in all situations!
Application:
Paul's command to be joyful seems obvious, but I know better. It is hard to be joyful when circumstances are not what you hoped for; or worse when every tragedy that can happen is happening. Our joy isn't because of our circumstances, because everything is going my way, but in-spite of them. If I remain sad and depressed over what is going on in my life, then I am really saying I mistrust God. Isn't it God who said that He would let nothing happen unless He allowed it? He only allows things to happen for my good - not that they are good - but the situation will, if I am mold-able to God's direction, make me more like the Savior. Isn't that something I want?
Don't stop praying! It means being in continual contact with God. I may stop talking to Him while I do something, but pick up where you left off and continue praying. If I'm always praying, I'll not be as stressed trying to discover God's will for me, because I will have been in continual communication with Him. 
Give thanks in all circumstances! Because God works everything for my good (Rom 8:28), then I must be thankful for whatever is sent my way (Are you listening to yourself?! Do I believe and act on what I'm typing?)
These three commands are not just good advice; they are God’s will for every Christian. I must be joyful, prayerful and thankful. God has commanded it - so it must be obeyed.
God please help me to show these qualities this evening. There is an inner battle going on that I want You to win. Give me your words to say, give me your thoughts to dwell on, not my anxious angry ramblings. Don't let Satan have the victory - You be victorious. Make me your ambassador. No matter what man has put in front of me to hurt, trick or demean - don't let me retaliate, keep me calm knowing You have allowed this to happen, and You will reward me if no one else does. May the riches of Your love, always be enough!