October Newsletter
Topic: Be Joyful and Hopeful
Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Introduction:
The mystery of life is this: no one can give you joy or make you joyful. People can make you happy; that’s why we have entertainers and comedians to amuse us at events. Many people express their emotions through facial expressions while being entertained, but once the event ends, that happiness fades because it’s not resolved within their minds. You are the only one who can create joy within your heart. Joy flows like a river and permeates every fiber of your being as you generate it yourself. As human beings, we all encounter trials and tribulations that can be overwhelming. It’s easy to become discouraged and lose hope, but as believers, we are called to be joyful and hopeful despite our circumstances. In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, the apostle Paul reminds us to “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” This scripture tells us that our joy and hope should not be based on our current life situations but on the fact that we belong to Christ and have the assurance of salvation. In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by negativity. We need to cultivate a spirit of joy and hope, regardless of our circumstances.
We shall explore three key points that can help us embody this article and experience a life filled with joy and hope.
1) Focus on The Promises of God:
One of Satan’s tactics is to divert your attention from God’s promises and use circumstances to distract you from placing your hope in the Lord. God has promised us eternal life with Him if we put our faith in Jesus. We can be assured of this promise and find comfort in knowing that no matter what happens in this life, we have a hope that extends beyond it. Romans 8:28 tells us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This means that even our struggles and challenges can be used for our ultimate good if we trust in God’s plan. True joy is not dependent on external circumstances but on the state of our hearts. By choosing to focus on the blessings we have, no matter how small, we can find reasons to rejoice. This does not mean ignoring our pain or challenges but rather choosing to find strength and hope in the midst of them. By embracing a mindset of gratitude and celebrating even the smallest victories, we can experience a profound transformation in our overall outlook on life.
2) Cultivate A Heart of Gratitude:
When we focus on the blessings in our lives and the ways that God has been faithful to us, it can be easier to maintain a spirit of joy and hope. Psalm 100:4 says, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” Gratitude can help us keep our focus on God and remember all that He has done for us. Gratitude has the power to shift our perspective and transform our lives. The scripture urges us to give thanks in all circumstances, reminding us that even amid adversity, there is always something to be grateful for. Cultivating a practice of gratitude allows us to shift our focus from what is lacking to what we already possess. It opens our eyes to the blessings, big and small, that often go unnoticed. Gratitude not only brings us joy but also inspires us to extend kindness and compassion to others. By expressing gratitude in all circumstances, we cultivate a spirit of contentment and resilience that carries us through life’s ups and downs.
3) Surround Yourself with Positive Encouragement:
The reason why many people cannot create joy within themselves and remain hopeful in the Lord is because of the people they surround themselves with and their perspectives on life. Satan purposely surrounds people with individuals who pollute their minds with negative thoughts to discourage them. As believers, we are called to support and encourage one another. Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Surrounding ourselves with other believers who can uplift us in times of difficulty can help us stay focused on our joy and hope in Christ. This life presents us with trials and tribulations that can dampen our spirits.
Conclusion:
The scripture 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 calls us to be joyful and hopeful, irrespective of our circumstances. By rejoicing always, praying without ceasing, and giving thanks in all circumstances, we can cultivate a mindset that transcends challenges and enables us to experience a life filled with joy and hope. Let us embrace the wisdom of these words and strive to live each day with gratitude, knowing that through joy and hope, we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way. In doing so, we not only transform our own lives but also become beacons of light, inspiring others to embrace the power of gratitude and live joyfully and hopefully. Finally, the only source and giver of joy is Jesus. In Him, you can find everlasting joy. He will always want to be there for you in all circumstances if you will let Him. I encourage you to let Him have His way in your life as your Lord and Savior.
Prayer time: Read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. Then, create an atmosphere of joy within yourself and worship God. Tell Jesus about your troubles; I am sure He will see you through. Amen.
John Aderogba for ROPMI.