1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

“And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him.” (1 John 5:14)

The advantage of this memory verse is clear—the confidence that God hears our prayers. But there is an action step for us. We need to be praying what pleases God. Other translations refer to our prayers being God’s will. So, if we ask God for things that are his will, he hears us. That makes sense, doesn’t it? I’m confident he hears all the other babbling we do, too.

Context: This verse appears during the conclusion to John’s first letter (he writes three letters total). John assumes he is writing to fellow believers, wants them to know about eternal life, and to further assure that when God hears us, he answers us. Continue reading “1 John 5:14 – Knowing What to Pray”

^“Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

As believers, we’re always seeking God’s will for our lives. In in our head, we know God’s will is perfect, and we want to be living in it. The Lord’s Prayer even has a petition that says, “Thy will be done.” That’s what we pray for, but do we know what it is? Do you ever question God about it? And then we encounter a text like this, reminding us so simply.

Context: In Chapter 5, Paul is setting expectations for the Thessalonians about Jesus’ return. He wanted them to be prepared, even though nobody knows when that day will come. We are still waiting all these years later. Our memory text comes from Paul’s final words of advice. He speaks of how we should relate to others and how we should live our lives while we wait. Continue reading “1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 – God’s Will For You”

Tag: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

1 John 5:14 – Knowing What to Pray

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 – God’s Will For You

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