‘Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.’ 1 Thess 5:16-18
This exhorts us to grow spiritually. We know that when children grow they can suffer ‘growing pains.’ Our spiritual growth can be the same. It isn’t easy to rejoice always; We go through sad and troubling times. We are not able to pray continually, although we are asked to. I shamefully admit that in trouble I can try many possible solutions before I pray.
We do not always give thanks, although God has showered us with blessings. Growing spiritually can be a painful business.