Sunday, December 11

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Ben Faulstick

1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18

16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

There are times in our lives when we all have moments of pessimism, doubt, and even dread.  It is at these times, I often sputter into a downward spiral forgetting the things in my life that are positive and inspirational.  When we focus on the positive; rejoice, pray, and give thanks, we are able to reverse the downward spiral and regain perspective.

One of the hardest things I ever had to deal with was the sudden death of my Grandfather.  He and I were extremely close, living only about a half mile apart, and he was a clear example for my life.  Perhaps the most drawing feature to Grandpa was his consistency.  No matter what happened in his life, he was content, humble, and happy with his life.  His example was one that showed God’s will by the consistency of his prayer, rejoicing, and thanks.

When Grandpa died, I experienced the moments of pessimism, doubt, and dread.  It hurt deeply that I knew I would no longer get to see, talk, and just be with Grandpa.  I would never see him ride the mower again, he would not again attend any of his grandchildren’s sporting events, and he wouldn’t be there to play a good game of Euchre.

This was a situation when I wanted to ask why, certainly not give thanks.  However, turning to God’s will of consistency and Grandpa’s example, I was able to give thanks to a full life.  We rejoiced in the fact that this was the way Grandpa wanted to go, quick and completely capable until the day he died.  The last time I saw him, he was sitting on the tractor.  The night he died he was able to watch my sister play softball.  It was perfect.  I rejoice and give thanks for that.  I just wish we could play another game of Euchre.