Be Joyful Always; Pray Continually

Be joyful always; pray continually. The way to rejoice at all times is to find moment-by-moment pleasure in your relationship with Me — the Lover of your soul. This relationship is so full of comfort and encouragement that it’s possible to be joyful in hope even when you’re in the midst of adversity.

Give thanks in all circumstances. There is immense Power in praying, “Thank You, Jesus.” These three words are appropriate for all times and in every situation because of My great sacrifice for you. I encourage you to praise Me for every good thing as soon as you become aware of it. This practice adds sparkle to your blessings — heightening your Joy.

When you are feeling sad or discouraged, it is still a good time to thank Me. This demonstrates your trust in Me and brightens your perspective. To enhance your gratefulness, ponder specific things about Me that delight you — My continual Presence, My lavish grace, My unfailing Love. Thanking Me in all circumstances strengthens your relationship with Me and helps you live more joyfully!

1 Thessalonians 5:16–18; Romans 12:12; Ephesians 1:7–8; Psalm 143:8

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Before you begin a task — large or small — take time to pray about it. By doing so, you acknowledge your need for Me and your trust that I will help you. This enables you to go about your work in dependence on Me. There are many benefits to this practice. I can guide your mind as you think things out and make decisions. Just knowing I am involved in what you’re doing gives you confidence, reducing stress. It’s wise to thank Me often for My help and to keep asking Me to guide you along the best pathway.

Though the Bible instructs you to pray continually, at times you ignore this teaching. When you’re feeling rushed, you find it hard to slow down enough to seek My perspective on the work at hand. However, diving in and forging ahead on your own is actually counterproductive. When you request My involvement before you begin, I can point you in the right direction — saving precious time and energy. I delight in helping you with everything, even simple tasks, because you are My beloved.

Colossians 3:23 NASB;Psalm 32:8 NLT; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Song of Songs 6:3 NKJV

Watch the Video: Jesus Always

Excerpted with permission from Jesus Always by Sarah Young, copyright Sarah Young.

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Your Turn

Pray continually! No matter what is going on right now, we can thank God for His love, protection, guidance, and faithfulness. We can ask Him about every large and small issue in our lives. Let’s praise Him throughout the day because we are His beloved! Come join the conversation on our blog!