Scripture:
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 (NKJV)
Points:
- Joy is a command, not a suggestion — rooted in Christ, not circumstances.
- Continual prayer keeps our joy alive by connecting us to the Source.
- Gratitude in all things shapes our perspective and deepens our trust.
- This rhythm — rejoice, pray, give thanks — is God’s will for us.
- We live best when we live worshipfully, regardless of circumstance.
Poem: Joy Without Pause
I will rejoice though skies are grey.
Though answers wait, I will still sing.
Not out of force, but from the truth
That You are good and You are here,
And joy in You is never gone.
I do not wait for perfect days.
I do not wait for pain to leave.
I lift my voice because You reign.
I speak with You as life goes on,
And joy begins to take its place.
Gratitude reshapes what I see.
It names the good that I ignored.
It thanks You for the breath I draw,
The peace that rises when I pray,
The grace that meets me where I fall.
You do not ask for shallow smiles.
You call for joy that fights through dark.
A joy that stays when days are long.
A joy that prays and still gives thanks.
A joy that rests in who You are.
So let me live the truth I know.
That I am Yours, and You are mine.
Let joy be more than fleeting light.
Let prayer be breath, and thanks my song.
Let Christ be where my joy begins.
Prayer:
God, help me to rejoice always. Let joy rise in my heart through prayer and gratitude. You are enough. Let my life reflect that joy today. Amen.
