Don't Despair, Don't Ever Despair!

Over the last several posts, we've considered the importance of rejoicing in the days the Lord has made--even when life seems gloomy and troubles prevail.

I Thessalonians 5:16-23 begins with the admonition to be joyful always, to pray continually, to give thanks in all circumstances. It continues:

"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."

That's a long to-do list when you're already weighed down with troubles and sorrow. "How," you may ask, "can it be done?" Read on:

"May God himself, the God of peace,

sanctify you through and through.

May your whole spirit, soul and body

be kept blameless at 

the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The one who calls you is faithful

and he will do it."

~ I Thessalonians 5:16-23

God tells His children to do their best, but when we fall short . . . no worries. The one who calls us is faithful, and He will do it. So don't despair, don't ever despair. The same God who will never leave us nor forsake us is the one who will complete in us what He has called us to do. Not only that, He will sanctify us and present us blameless at the coming of Jesus Christ.