1 Thessalonians 5

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18  Rejoice always,  ¹⁷ pray without ceasing,  ¹⁸ give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

I love to read.  For those who are non-readers, they struggle to understand how I can be in the middle of four different books at one time.  I love the diversity of learning about many different topics at once…and if one book gets a little tiresome, I switch to something else and return to it at a later time.  Of all the titles I’m currently reading, I’m really enjoying a series of fiction books, The Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton, surgeon by Mel Starr.  These stories take place in the 1300’s in England.  The verbiage reflects this time period and location and I often appreciate the glossary the author includes in the front of the book.  These books are well written mysteries with Hugh de Singleton as our sleuth.  Hugh is a learned man and a believer; though these books aren’t overtly “Christian-Fiction.”

As I was reading last night, Hugh was in trouble.  He had been captured by those who would prefer their secrets not be found out by a meddling surgeon.  Hugh made the following observation, “I believe I am like most men.  I call upon the Lord Christ when in need, but forget to speak to Him when my life is smooth and pleasant.  I treat the Savior like a lawyer; I call upon Him only when I am in trouble.  I vowed to amend my ways and prayed that some escape might appear…”

Oh how true this is!  When the sun is shining and life smells of roses, we sometimes forget that God is there and He provided this beautiful ambiance.  And oftentimes, like Hugh, we promise to do better in the future…especially if God will answer our need as soon as possible.  Well – accept this as a reminder – praise God today!  Pray without ceasing…no matter what the day may bring.  Thank Him for the sunrise and the sunset.  Thank Him for each meal you eat and for the safe travel you enjoy.

God is amazing and we need to tell Him about it!!

I’m praying for you!

Pastor Amy

Starr, Mel. "A Trail of Ink, The third chronicle of High de Singleton, surgeon." Kregel Publications, Grand Rapids, MI. 2010. p177.