1 Thessalonians 5:18

In everything give thanks This again the Apostle taught by example as well as precept; see ch. 1 Thessalonians 1:2; 1 Thessalonians 3:9-10; and comp. Philippians 4:6; Colossians 4:2. "In everything," even in persecution and shame, suffered for Christ's sake; comp. Philippians 1:29; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10.

Prayer and Thanksgiving are the two wings of the soul by which it rises upward to God.

for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you Rather, to you-ward (R. V.): "You Thessalonian believers so greatly afflicted and tempted to murmuring and despondency are the special objects of this Divine purpose, whose attainment is made possible for you in Christ Jesus. God intends that your life should be one of constant prayer, constant joy and thanksgiving." In ch. 1 Thessalonians 3:3 it was said that the Thessalonians were "appointed" to their extraordinary sufferings (comp. ch. 1 Thessalonians 4:3). Now the reason of this appointment is shown; it is that they may grow perfect in thankfulness, grateful for the bitter as well as for the sweet in their experiences, for

"each rebuff

That turns earth's smoothness rough,

Each sting that bids nor sit nor stand, bit go."

Such cheerfulness of soul needs strong faith, and is won through hard trial. Romans 5:3-5 supplies the reasoning by which tribulation is made matter of thanksgiving and the sorrows of the Christian are turned to songs of joy. On Christ Jesus, see note to ch. 1 Thessalonians 2:14.

From joy, prayer and thanksgivingthe Apostle passes by a natural transition to the Spirit and prophesying. For Christian joy and Christian prayer are inspired by the Holy Spirit. See ch. 1 Thessalonians 1:6, "with joy of the Holy Spirit"; also Romans 8:26; Ephesians 6:18, and Judges 20, "praying in the Holy Spirit." "Praying" and "prophesying" are kindred, spiritual exercises (see 1 Corinthians 11:4-5).