Christ-Life: Joy, Prayer, & Thanksgiving - Nov. 21st, 2023

Introduction

Opening Prayer: Begin with a prayer asking for God's guidance as you delve into His Word.

Introduction to the Text: Introduce 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, providing context about Paul's message to the Thessalonians.

1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 KJV 1900

16 Rejoice evermore. 17 Pray without ceasing. 18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Background Context

Author and Audience: The Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the church in Thessalonica, a young church he had founded during his second missionary journey. The Thessalonians faced various challenges, including persecution and misunderstandings about the return of Christ.

Purpose of the Letter: Paul's primary purpose was to encourage the believers in their faith amidst persecution and to provide clarification about Christian doctrine, especially concerning the second coming of Christ.

Setting the Scene for the Verses

Chapter 5 Overview: In this chapter, Paul shifts from discussing eschatological events to giving practical instructions for living the Christian life in the present.

Exhortations for Christian Living: The specific verses (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) are part of a series of brief, yet powerful, exhortations that Paul gives to the Thessalonians. These instructions are meant to guide them in practical godliness as they await Christ’s return.

Introducing 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (KJV): "Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."

Holistic Approach to Christian Living: These verses present a holistic approach to Christian living that encompasses continuous joy, unceasing prayer, and perpetual thanksgiving.

Significance in Their Context: Given the challenges faced by the Thessalonian church, these instructions were not just idealistic commands but practical, daily guidelines to sustain their faith and hope.

Application for the Sermon

Encouragement for the Modern Believer: As you unpack these verses, highlight how Paul’s timeless instructions are equally relevant to modern believers, serving as foundational principles for a joyous, prayerful, and thankful life in Christ.

Firstly, Rejoice Evermore

Definition of Biblical Joy: Biblical joy differs from worldly happiness. Joy in the Christian context is rooted in our relationship with Christ and the salvation He offers.

Defining Christian Joy:

What Christian Joy is Not

Not Based on Circumstances: Unlike worldly happiness, Christian joy is not dependent on external conditions or material possessions. It doesn’t fluctuate with life's ups and downs.

Not a Fleeting Emotion: Worldly happiness is often a temporary feeling, subject to change with one's mood or situation. In contrast, Christian joy is not a transient emotional state.

Not Self-Centered: Worldly happiness can often be self-focused, stemming from personal achievements or gains. Christian joy, however, is not rooted in self-interest or egocentric pursuits.

What Christian Joy Is

Rooted in Relationship with Christ: Christian joy is deeply anchored in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. It is the product of knowing and experiencing God's love, mercy, and grace.

A Fruit of the Spirit: As described in Galatians 5:22-23, joy is a fruit of the Spirit, an inherent outcome of the Holy Spirit's indwelling presence in the believer's life.

Galatians 5:22–23 KJV 1900

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

Consistent Regardless of Circumstances: Christian joy remains steadfast regardless of life’s challenges. It is a serene assurance and contentment that comes from trusting God's sovereignty and goodness, even in adversity.

Connected to Eternal Perspective: This joy is intertwined with the eternal perspective of the Christian faith. It looks beyond the temporal to the everlasting joy found in Christ's salvation and the promise of eternal life.

Reflective of God’s Nature: In experiencing and expressing joy, believers reflect the character of God, who is the source of true joy.

Source of Joy: Joy stems from knowing God, His promises, and our eternal hope in Christ.

Knowing God

Experience of God’s Presence: The presence of God in a believer's life, felt through prayer, worship, and daily living, fosters a deep sense of joy. This joy is not just about knowing God intellectually but experiencing Him personally.

God’s Promises

Promises in Scripture: The Bible is filled with God's promises which serve as a source of comfort and joy. Examples include promises of God's faithfulness, provision, guidance, and presence in times of trouble.

Fulfillment of Promises: Reflect on how the fulfillment of God's promises in the past (like the coming of Christ) reinforces our faith and joy in His future promises. This historical perspective strengthens believers' trust in God.

Eternal Hope in Christ

Salvation and Redemption: The joy of salvation, knowing sins are forgiven and we are reconciled with God through Christ, is a central source of Christian joy. It’s the joy of redemption and the promise of a new life in Christ.

Hope Beyond This Life: Christian joy is deeply linked to the hope of eternal life. This hope is not just an abstract concept but a guaranteed future with God, secured through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Overcoming Trials: The assurance of eternal life gives believers a unique perspective on trials and sufferings. They can find joy even in difficulties, knowing that these momentary troubles are producing an eternal glory (as noted in 2 Corinthians 4:17).

2 Corinthians 4:17 KJV 1900

17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;

Application in Sermon

Illustrations and Testimonies: Use real-life stories or biblical accounts that demonstrate how individuals have found joy in knowing God, clinging to His promises, and holding onto the hope of eternity.

Encouragement for Daily Living: Encourage your congregation to seek joy in their relationship with God, to immerse themselves in the Scriptures to discover His promises, and to anchor their lives in the hope of eternity with Christ.

Use scriptural examples such as Paul and Silas singing in prison (Acts 16:25).

Acts 16:25 KJV 1900

25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.

Secondly, Pray Without Ceasing

The Nature of Prayer

Continuous, Not Constant: Emphasize that "praying without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17) doesn’t mean non-stop talking to God, but maintaining a continual awareness and openness to God throughout the day. It's about living in a state of prayerfulness.

Awareness of God's Presence: Encourage the understanding that continuous prayer involves being constantly aware of God’s presence in every aspect of life, acknowledging Him in all we do.

Attitude of Dependence: Continuous prayer reflects an attitude of dependence and trust in God. It's a recognition that we need God’s guidance, strength, and presence in every moment.

Examples of Persistent Prayer

Daniel’s Dedication: In Daniel 6, despite the decree against prayer, Daniel remains faithful in praying three times a day. His commitment to prayer, even in the face of persecution, exemplifies a life woven with prayer.

Context and Background

Setting: Daniel 6 occurs in the context of Daniel's service under King Darius of Persia. Daniel's exceptional qualities make him a target of jealousy among other officials.

The Decree: These officials trick King Darius into signing a decree that for thirty days, anyone who prays to any god or human besides the king would be thrown into the lions' den. They did this knowing Daniel's faithfulness to God.

Daniel’s Response to the Decree

Unwavering Commitment: Despite knowing the decree, Daniel continues his regular practice of praying three times a day. This shows his unwavering commitment to God over any earthly authority.

Open Prayer: Daniel doesn't hide his prayer practice; he prays in his upstairs room with the windows open towards Jerusalem (Daniel 6:10). This demonstrates his boldness and refusal to compromise his faith.

Daniel 6:10 KJV 1900

10 Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime.

Consistency in Prayer: Daniel's habit of praying three times a day indicates a disciplined, consistent prayer life. This was not a response to the crisis; it was his regular practice, rooted in his deep relationship with God.

Daniel 6:16 KJV 1900

16 Then the king commanded, and they brought Daniel, and cast him into the den of lions. Now the king spake and said unto Daniel, Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee.

Gratitude and Supplication: Though the specifics of Daniel’s prayers are not detailed, it's implied that his prayers included supplications and thanksgiving to God, reflecting a balanced prayer life.

Daniel's Faith and God's Faithfulness

Faith in God: Daniel’s actions reveal his absolute faith in God’s sovereignty and protection, regardless of the consequences.

God’s Deliverance: God honors Daniel's faithfulness by miraculously saving him from the lions' den, demonstrating His power and faithfulness in response to Daniel's unwavering prayer life.

Daniel 6:22–23 KJV 1900

22 My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions’ mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt. 23 Then was the king exceeding glad for him, and commanded that they should take Daniel up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no manner of hurt was found upon him, because he believed in his God.

Application for Today’s Believers

Prioritize Prayer: Encourage your congregation to prioritize prayer as Daniel did, even in the face of challenges or societal pressures.

Boldness in Faith: Urge them to be bold in their faith, openly and consistently communicating with God, regardless of their circumstances.

Consistent Prayer Life: Highlight the importance of a disciplined prayer life, not just in times of crisis but as a regular practice.

Trust in God’s Sovereignty: Remind them that, like Daniel, they can trust in God’s sovereignty and faithfulness, knowing that He hears and responds to their prayers.

Hannah’s Earnest Prayer: In 1 Samuel 1, Hannah’s persistent prayer for a child demonstrates her deep faith and trust in God. Her heartfelt pleas and subsequent thanksgiving upon receiving her son, Samuel, show the intensity and sincerity of her prayer life.

Context and Background

Hannah’s Plight: Hannah is deeply distressed by her inability to bear children, a situation exacerbated by her rival's provocation and her own profound longing for a child.

Hannah's Prayer at the Temple

1 Samuel 1:10–11 KJV 1900

10 And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the Lord, and wept sore. 11 And she vowed a vow, and said, O Lord of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the Lord all the days of his life, and there shall no rasor come upon his head.

Intensity and Sincerity: Hannah’s prayer is marked by intense emotion and sincerity. Her prayer is not just a request but a vow, showing her deep faith and complete surrender to God's will.

Misunderstood by Eli: Eli the priest initially misunderstands Hannah’s silent, fervent prayer as drunkenness, but upon her explanation, he blesses her, saying, “Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of him” (1 Samuel 1:17 KJV).

1 Samuel 1:17 KJV 1900

17 Then Eli answered and said, Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of him.

God’s Response and Hannah’s Thanksgiving

1 Samuel 1:20 KJV 1900

20 Wherefore it came to pass, when the time was come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bare a son, and called his name Samuel, saying, Because I have asked him of the Lord.

Answer to Prayer: God answers Hannah’s prayer, granting her a son, Samuel. This underscores the effectiveness of earnest, heartfelt prayer.

Hannah’s Fulfillment of Vow: Hannah keeps her vow, dedicating Samuel to the Lord’s service, demonstrating her gratitude and commitment to God (1 Samuel 1:24-28).

1 Samuel 1:24–28 KJV 1900

24 And when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, with three bullocks, and one ephah of flour, and a bottle of wine, and brought him unto the house of the Lord in Shiloh: and the child was young. 25 And they slew a bullock, and brought the child to Eli. 26 And she said, Oh my lord, as thy soul liveth, my lord, I am the woman that stood by thee here, praying unto the Lord. 27 For this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of him: 28 Therefore also I have lent him to the Lord; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the Lord. And he worshipped the Lord there.

Application for Today’s Believers

Praying with Sincerity and Faith: Encourage your congregation to come to God with sincere hearts, openly expressing their deepest desires and struggles in prayer.

Endurance in Prayer: Highlight the importance of persistent prayer, even when answers seem delayed or circumstances are challenging.

Thankfulness and Commitment: Urge believers to not only pray in times of need but to also offer thanksgiving and fulfill their commitments to God, as Hannah did.

Application: Incorporating Prayer into Daily Life

Set Specific Times for Prayer: Encourage setting aside specific times for prayer each day, as Daniel did. This helps in developing a habit of prayer.

Pray in All Situations: Urge the congregation to bring everything to God in prayer, whether they are moments of joy, decision-making, or times of need.

Use Reminders and Prompts: Suggest using daily activities or prompts as reminders to pray. For example, praying while commuting, doing household chores, or before meals.

Breath Prayers: Introduce the concept of "breath prayers" – short, simple prayers that can be repeated throughout the day, helping to maintain a prayerful attitude.

Journaling: Encourage keeping a prayer journal to record prayers, thoughts, and God’s responses. This can be a powerful tool for reflecting on God’s faithfulness.

Incorporate Scripture: Guide the congregation to use Scripture as a foundation for their prayers. This aligns their prayers with God’s will and promises.

Thirdly, In Everything Give Thanks

Thankfulness in All Circumstances

Challenging Yet Essential: Acknowledge the difficulty yet the necessity of being thankful in all situations. It is often easy to give thanks during times of prosperity, but Paul's exhortation in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, "In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you," applies equally in times of adversity.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 KJV 1900

18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Sign of Trust in God: Emphasize that thankfulness in all circumstances is a reflection of our trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness, recognizing that He works through all situations for our growth and His glory.

Biblical Examples

Job’s Steadfastness: In the midst of immense suffering, Job maintains his integrity and his faith in God.

Job's Trials

Initial Blessings: Job was initially a man of great wealth and blessed with a large family, known for his righteousness and blameless life.

Sudden Calamities: Job experiences sudden and devastating losses — his livestock, servants, and all his children — in quick succession, as described in Job 1:13-19.

Job 1:13–19 KJV 1900

13 And there was a day when his sons and his daughters were eating and drinking wine in their eldest brother’s house: 14 And there came a messenger unto Job, and said, The oxen were plowing, and the asses feeding beside them: 15 And the Sabeans fell upon them, and took them away; yea, they have slain the servants with the edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee. 16 While he was yet speaking, there came also another, and said, The fire of God is fallen from heaven, and hath burned up the sheep, and the servants, and consumed them; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee. 17 While he was yet speaking, there came also another, and said, The Chaldeans made out three bands, and fell upon the camels, and have carried them away, yea, and slain the servants with the edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee. 18 While he was yet speaking, there came also another, and said, Thy sons and thy daughters were eating and drinking wine in their eldest brother’s house: 19 And, behold, there came a great wind from the wilderness, and smote the four corners of the house, and it fell upon the young men, and they are dead; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee.

Job’s Response

Job 1:21 KJV 1900

21 And said, Naked came I out of my mother’s womb, And naked shall I return thither: The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord.

Acceptance of God’s Sovereignty: Job’s response reflects his deep understanding of God's sovereignty. He acknowledges that everything he had came from God and thus could be taken away by God.

Continued Worship: Despite his immense grief, Job does not curse God. Instead, he worships, as indicated in Job 1:20,

Job 1:20 KJV 1900

20 Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped,

Maintaining Integrity: In Job 2:10, responding to his wife's suggestion to curse God, Job maintains his integrity, saying, "Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?" This demonstrates his unwavering faith and trust in God, regardless of his personal circumstances.

Job 2:10 KJV 1900

10 But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips.

Lessons from Job’s Example

Thankfulness in Loss: Job’s example teaches that thankfulness to God is not contingent on our circumstances but on our recognition of God's ultimate authority and goodness.

Submission to God’s Will: His reaction exemplifies submission to God's will, understanding that our lives are in God’s hands, both in times of blessing and in times of suffering.

Faith Tested and Proven: Job’s story is a testament to the testing and proving of faith through adversity, showcasing that true faith remains steadfast even in the darkest times.

Application for Believers

Encouraging Resilience: Use Job’s example to encourage your congregation to remain steadfast in their faith and thankfulness, even when facing personal trials.

Understanding God’s Sovereignty: Remind them of the importance of recognizing God’s sovereignty over all aspects of life, trusting that He works through all situations for His purposes.

David’s Heart of Gratitude: David consistently offers thanks to God throughout the Psalms, regardless of his circumstances.

David's Varied Life Experiences

From Shepherd to King: David’s life journey, from a shepherd boy to the king of Israel, was marked by both extraordinary triumphs and profound challenges.

Facing Adversity: He experienced periods of fear, sorrow, and distress, as well as times of victory and joy.

Gratitude in the Psalms

Psalm 23 – Trust and Gratitude in Trials:

Psalm 23:4 (KJV): "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me."

Expression of Trust: Even in the direst of circumstances, David expresses his trust and gratitude to the Lord, his Shepherd. He acknowledges God’s presence and protection in the midst of life’s darkest valleys.

Comfort in God’s Presence: David finds comfort in God's guidance and care, illustrating a heart of gratitude rooted in his relationship with God.

Psalms of Thanksgiving:

Various Psalms: David authored numerous psalms of thanksgiving, praising God for His deliverance, protection, and blessings. For example, Psalm 9:1 (KJV) says, "I will praise thee, O LORD, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works."

Acknowledging God's Faithfulness: David consistently recognizes and thanks God for His faithfulness, mercy, and loving-kindness, regardless of his own circumstances.

Lessons from David’s Example

Gratitude in All Circumstances: David's Psalms teach that gratitude should be a constant attitude, not dependent on our situations but on our recognition of God’s enduring presence and faithfulness.

Turning to God in Hardship: His prayers and songs demonstrate turning to God in times of hardship, finding reasons to be thankful even when circumstances seem dire.

Worship as a Response: David models worship as a natural response to God’s character and works, encouraging believers to see God’s hand in every aspect of life.

Application for Believers

Encouraging a Heart of Gratitude: Use David’s example to inspire your congregation to cultivate a heart of gratitude, recognizing and thanking God in every situation.

Integrating Thanksgiving in Prayer: Encourage them to include expressions of thanksgiving in their prayers, acknowledging God’s presence, protection, and provision in their lives.

Application

Practicing Daily Gratitude: Encourage the congregation to recognize and acknowledge God's hand in every aspect of their lives. Practicing daily gratitude shifts focus from our problems to God’s providence.

Gratitude in Prayer and Testimony: Urge members to express their thankfulness in prayer, taking time to thank God for His blessings, guidance, and presence. Encourage sharing testimonies of gratitude, which can uplift and edify the church body.

Reflecting on God’s Goodness: Suggest that congregants reflect on how God has worked in their lives in the past, which can foster gratitude and trust in His future dealings.

Thankfulness as a Witness: Point out how a thankful spirit, especially in trials, serves as a powerful witness to non-believers about the peace and hope found in Christ.

Conclusion

Synthesis and Challenge: Tie together the themes of joy, prayer, and thanksgiving, emphasizing that these are not isolated acts but intertwined aspects of a vibrant Christian life.

Tying Together the Themes

Interconnectedness of Joy, Prayer, and Thanksgiving:

Joy as a Foundation: Christian joy, rooted in our relationship with Christ and the salvation He offers, sets the foundation. This joy is not dependent on external circumstances but is a constant, emanating from our understanding of God's love and grace.

Prayer as a Lifeline: Continuous prayer, exemplified by Daniel and Hannah, is our lifeline to God. It's an expression of our dependence, trust, and ongoing communication with the Lord, sustaining our joy and deepening our relationship with Him.

Thanksgiving as a Response: In all circumstances, thanksgiving is our heartfelt response to God's sovereignty and goodness, as shown in the lives of Job and David. It's a recognition and acknowledgment of God’s work in our lives, regardless of our situations.

The Cycle of Spiritual Growth:

Mutual Reinforcement: Each of these elements reinforces the others. Joy fuels our prayer life; prayer deepens our understanding and experience of God, which in turn fosters more profound gratitude; and thanksgiving brings us back to joy, completing the cycle.

Cultivating Spiritual Maturity: Together, these practices cultivate a vibrant, mature Christian life, enabling believers to thrive spiritually even in challenging times.

The Challenge to the Congregation

Integrating These Elements into Daily Life:

Challenge your congregation to consciously integrate joy, prayer, and thanksgiving into their daily lives. Encourage them to see these not as separate or occasional practices but as integral to their daily walk with Christ.

Suggest practical ways to incorporate these elements, such as setting aside time for prayer and reflection, maintaining a gratitude journal, or finding joy in everyday blessings.

Living Out a Vibrant Faith:

Encourage them to live out their faith vibrantly, reflecting the joy, prayerfulness, and thankfulness in their interactions, decisions, and perspectives.

Remind them that such a life not only strengthens their faith but also serves as a witness to others of the transformative power of a life rooted in Christ.

Encouragement in Trials:

Acknowledge that maintaining joy, a prayerful spirit, and a thankful heart can be challenging, especially in trials. However, remind them that these practices are vital in such times, offering peace, perspective, and strength.

Closing Prayer: Conclude with a prayer of commitment, asking for God's help to live out these principles.

Post-Sermon Activities

Reflection Questions: Provide questions for personal or group reflection, encouraging deeper contemplation on how to apply these principles.

On Joy

What does Christian joy mean to you personally? How does it differ from worldly happiness?

Reflect on a time when you experienced joy in Christ despite challenging circumstances. What sustained your joy during this period?

How can you cultivate a more consistent sense of joy in your daily life, regardless of your current situations?

On Prayer

What does it mean to 'pray without ceasing'? How can you incorporate this principle more fully into your daily routines?

Reflect on a biblical figure (like Daniel or Hannah) whose prayer life inspires you. What specific aspect of their prayer life can you emulate?

Have you experienced a situation where persistent prayer changed your perspective or outcome? Share your experience and what you learned from it.

On Thankfulness

What are some of the challenges you face in practicing thankfulness in all circumstances? How do you overcome these challenges?

Reflect on a time when expressing gratitude to God (even in a difficult situation) brought a change in your attitude or circumstances. What did you learn from this?

How can you make thanksgiving a more integral part of your prayer life and daily interactions?

Integrating the Three Elements

How do you see joy, prayer, and thankfulness as interconnected in your spiritual walk? Can you identify a time when you experienced their interconnectedness?

What practical steps can you take to more fully integrate these principles into your life?

How can living out these principles of joy, prayer, and thankfulness impact your witness to others about the transformative power of life in Christ?

Community Sharing: If time allows, open the floor for a few members to share how they have experienced joy, persevered in prayer, or maintained a thankful heart in challenging times.