Pastor Leon’s SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer

May 16: 1Kings 1: 1Chronicles 28; Psalm 91; 1Thessalonians 5

Scripture: 1Thessalonians (NIV) 5:18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Observation: I count 14 specific thoughts Paul given in this section as to how we are to live. Verse 18 is the 10th such statement. In whatever circumstances we find ourselves, we are to be thankful. Paul is not here telling us to be thankful FOR those circumstances, but IN those circumstances. However blessed or troublesome our circumstances are, we have something for which we are eternally grateful. We have His Presence! We have His Promises!

Application: It is the will of God for me to be thankful. It is good for God when I am thankful. It honors God when I declare that He is loving and faithful even when circumstances may seem to say otherwise. It is good for me when I am thankful. It lifts my vision to focus on the source of my strength rather than the source of my frustrations.

Prayer: Lord, you have given me so many reasons to be thankful. I want you to find me ever grateful! Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!