Hold fast...

This morning's passage is in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-22..."Rejoice evermore. (17) Pray without ceasing. (18) In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (19) Quench not the Spirit. (20) Despise not prophesyings. (21) Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. (22) Abstain from all appearance of evil."

These verses are straight to the point at all of us, and I include myself. Through our daily trials and tribulations, we are to follow these guidelines. I didn't see any of these being suggestions. No nudges saying you oughta do this or that...like the Nike ads state "Just do It". The same here.

Rejoice evermore...whether good or bad, richer or poorer, sickness and health...I know it sounds like vows, but not to a bride - to our Lord.

Pray without ceasing...have you ever really tried that? Throughout a day actually talking to God? I can hear you doubting, "what about interruptions, kids, phone calls?" those come with the territory, but you truly can talk to God all day.

In everything give thanks...that's a tough one. When things are good, it's easy. But what about when your kid gets detention, storms damage your property, loved one gets ill? Those times our humanity can keep us from seeing that God is in control. His perfect will is above our understanding. But, we are called to rejoice, regardless.

Quench not the Spirit...do you even know what that means? My interpretation has to do with dealing with others. You know, when someone is on fire for the Lord? You can see the Spirit working in them and through them. My feeling is that when we are working alongside one another, be careful as to not "quench" the fire God has placed in their hearts.

Despise not prophesyings...don't take lightly what is going on around you. Be ready for what God has promised to come. Don't rest and don't wait to do the work set before you. We know the time is short, but the work to be done is great!

Prove all things...be careful of your deeds and thoughts. Prove them based on the Word of God. Lay everything down at the feet of Jesus with prayer. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be careful what you get invoved with!

And, finally, Abstain from even the appearance of evil. Be careful what your walk looks like. It's not only about what you do, but how others perceive. I know you can't be perfect, but we need to be aware of how things appear to others. Once again, I go back to the saying..."you're the only Jesus some will ever see"...

I pray that you will be touched by the words in this passage today. Be joyful, give thanks, pray, don't quench the Spirit, prove all things, and be careful how you're seen.

Let me know if there is a concern in your life I can pray for today...be blessed!!!