Of all the Scriptures that are within the Bible, these above all, are possibly the greatest barometer to the state of our personal faith and obedience to the Lord. I cannot tell you the myriads of times I have received these Scriptures as a direct answer to prayer. We only have to look within our heart to see whether we are actually obedient to them or not.
The Lord is constantly saying when we do not know what to do, or where to turn, “Rejoice always.” In spite of how we feel, “Pray without ceasing.” In spite of not seeing the answers yet, “in all things give thanks,” in spite of not really understanding all the reasoning behind God’s Will for us in doing so.
Psalm 22: 3: says, “Yet Thou art Holy, O Thou Who art enthroned upon the praises of Israel (Thy people). Our obedience in doing it God’s way, according to His Word, releases the Lord to activate His Power on our behalf. It gives God great pleasure to see His children obey His Word without seeing, or understanding the wherewithal of His Higher purposes.
Hebrews 11: 6: tells us plainly that, “Without faith it is impossible to please and be satisfactory to Him, for whoever would come near to God must (necessarily) believe that He is (exists) and that He is a Rewarder of those who earnestly and diligently seek Him (out).
Jesus came to us as the Son of the tribe of “Judah,” which means “praise,” to allow us by His Presence within, the ability to walk in the transforming Power of being conformed to His Image, as Sons of Praise. When we in obedience to His Word rejoice, pray, and give thanks to Him, we are speaking the language of His Heavenly Kingdom, to which we are destined, because of the Price He paid for our Redemption from the kingdom of this world.
Dearest Holy Lord Jesus: thank You so very much for the simplicity and clarity of the requirement of Your Word and Will. You did not make it so difficult, that even a small child could understand what You were saying. Enable us today by Your Precious Holy Spirit, to initiate the step of faith in beginning to Rejoice in You, pray, and give You thanks, even if we do not have the matter of the “always,” “ without ceasing,” and “in all things,” quite fully resolved yet. May you be greatly edified in the childlike faith of those who seek to obey Your Word today. Glory to You alone!
