Sunday Devotion

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances;

 for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 (ESV)

This passage is such a steadying reminder for our hearts.

These aren’t separate tasks — they’re a way of living close to God.

For those of us on a recovery journey, these words speak directly into our daily struggles:

✨ Rejoice always — not because life is perfect, but because God is present. Even on the hard days, our joy is rooted in Him, not in circumstances or food.

✨ Pray without ceasing — little prayers throughout the day keep us connected to God.

 “Lord, help me choose wisely.”

 “Lord, calm my emotions.”

 “Lord, give me strength for the next decision.”

Prayer becomes the lifeline that steadies us when cravings hit or old patterns try to pull us back.

✨ Give thanks in all circumstances — gratitude shifts our focus.

 It pulls us out of temptation, out of self-pity, and back into God’s truth.

A thankful heart makes room for peace — the kind of peace where overeating loses its power.

And then Paul adds, “for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

 Not heavy, not burdensome — but God’s loving invitation into a life anchored in joy, prayer, and gratitude.

 That’s the kind of life where recovery grows.

Prayer:

 Lord, help us to live out this beautiful passage today. Teach us to rejoice in You, to stay connected through constant prayer, and to give thanks no matter what we face. Anchor our hearts in Your truth and strengthen us in our recovery. In Jesus’ name, amen.