I Almost Missed It

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Several years ago, someone posted a question on social media. “How do I know God’s will for my life?” 

I admit I’d wondered that myself, but I think I was getting my purpose confused with God’s will. As my children grew into adults, I struggled with the purpose God had for me at that point in my life. I was still a wife and mom, but there was a shift in how I would spend my time and what God called me to do.

Was I seeking God’s will for my life or figuring out the purpose for why I existed?

Every follower of Jesus has a purpose. In that purpose, I’m called to shine a light for Jesus. Whether I’m parenting, working in the field I trained for, creating with my hands, or writing, I’m working for God’s kingdom.

On Sunday, our minister Aaron preached about God’s will for our lives. 1 Thessalonians speaks with a clear voice for me to rejoice, pray, and give thanks all the time. Wow! Paul had written about God’s will in Thessalonians, and I almost missed it. 

No matter what my purpose is, I’m to speak words of joy, talk to God all the time, and be grateful. When I do these things, my heart feels lighter and my faith more secure.

In a world with so much negativity, seek the good. Look for reasons to rejoice, whisper in God’s ear, and appreciate what God has given. 

God’s will for our lives is to rejoice, pray, and give thanks as we live with purpose.