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Intention

To position our hearts in joy and gratitude to God, so that we remain encouraged as we follow His leading in the battle for those He loves.

Scripture

“Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

“Do not put out the Spirit’s fire. Do not treat prophecies with contempt, but test them all; hold on to what is good, reject whatever is harmful.

“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.”

– 1 Thessalonians 5:15–24

Reflection

Some of the Bible’s shortest verses are in this series of exhortations. They also offer some of our greatest assurances.

Verses 16 and 17 consist of only two words each: “Rejoice always, pray continually.” They are followed by, “give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (v. 18).

It’s great to know what God’s will is! It’s His will to forgive and do good even to those who have wronged us. Then, as we stir up our faith and discernment concerning what God is saying, we remain confident that our faithful God is transforming us and will keep us.

The God of peace is drawing souls to reconcile with Him. However, as we share our faith with others, we may become discouraged. I have reaped very little among family and unsaved friends. Many efforts to love and witness have not been received as doing good, regardless of how generous or caring I tried to be.

Perhaps people’s responses are more a reflection of the lack of Christ’s appeal through me than a rejection of Christ Himself. Would His nature be more evident if I rejoiced, prayed, and gave thanks continually? Would I be wiser and more discerning?

How many times have we tried to influence loved ones, associates, or strangers toward Christ, only to be rejected or ignored? It is difficult to maintain faith, hope, and courage to keep trying. Rejoicing, praying, and thanking God for who He is and that He is answering our prayers – even if we have not seen it yet – may help us in the battles for the souls He loves as we follow His directions.

A while back, I watched as an artist worked on her painting. The image she was painting was, unknown to her, filled with Christian symbolism. I felt God wanted me to share with her how the painting connected to those Christian themes.

I did so, and she even allowed me to pray with her. Later, I asked God that she would come to our church (or find another local one).

Some time passed, and I forgot about these prayers. She receded from my memory.

A few months ago, a woman visited our church. I had the opportunity to get to know her. Wonderfully, I was able to lead her to receive Jesus!

One day after having lunch together, I went with her to an op shop. She was looking for wood or canvas to repurpose. She showed me a photo of one of her paintings as an example of her work.

When she did, God opened my eyes! It was that exact same piece! She was the painter I felt led to share with and pray for.

God had answered prayers I had forgotten! He had brought this lady back into my life, and she now trusts in Christ.

God remembers your prayers and small acts of faith. Though some hopes have not yet been realised, He is listening, following up on things you have done, and working out what you cannot imagine.

Let us take heart, rejoice, pray, give thanks, and trust Him!

Video

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You that You go before us as we rejoice, pray, and give You thanks. The battle for souls is Yours. Help us discern and engage the battle with You.

Please forgive our passivity, discouragement, weakness and failures. Help us to rejoice, pray, give thanks, trust, and show up as You direct. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Author Bio

Judy Wilkie, D. Min., is an American-Aussie married to an Aussie, Rob. Under Elim Fellowship USA, she arrived in Australia in 1994 to teach at Tabor/Eastern College. Together, Rob and Judy are active in prayer and discipleship in an Australian Presbyterian Church.

Judy’s life has centred on counselling, teaching at Bible colleges, and partnering with Rob to support his pastoral ministry and family.

Prayer Points for GO Month to Pentecost 2025

1. Five friends to trust in Christ and to share the gospel with those five in May. Matthew 28:19–20

2. Repentance, revival and reformation in Australia and for millions to believe in Jesus Christ. Luke 24:47

3. A Church that grows in extravagant love for God and people. 2 Corinthians 5:14–15

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