It's been a busy year so far but things are calming down now that we are home from a visit to North Carolina. We had a wonderful time with four of our grandchildren then over the weekend we got to spend time with the other two older grandchildren. Life is good when you are with grandchildren.
As the scripture tells, there are a few things that we must do to make life good. According to God's will we are to be joyful always. Filled with joy, the kind of joy that only God can supply. A feeling of gladness or delight, an emotion of well-being. More than just happy, joy-full.
"Pray continually": maintain a spirit of prayer, a constant conversation with God, on-going messages between friends, mentors, the Holy One. Keep a conversation going in your head with God all day.
"Give thanks in all circumstances": in all things give thanks. Be grateful for everything. The things we take for granted, the things that surprise us, the blessings that overwhelm, the amazing presence of God with us. We give thanks even in bad times of grief, of loss, of discouragement, of frustration and anger. Give thanks to God in all situations.
"Do not put out the Spirit's fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil. May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through." (1 Thessalonians 5:19-23 NIV).
Consider these thoughts from Paul to the new believers in Thessalonica. He gave them these firm guidelines to help them find their way as Christians. Even solid believers can use these reminders for faith growing and solidifying beliefs. As this new year begins, let us keep these thoughts close and follow Paul's instructions. Make 2020 a new year with a right start.
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