1 Thess 5:16-23 In these verses are found the principles of the Life we have In Christ not something to attain to, but it is the resident grace of God that lives in us enabling us inspite of our circumstances to live in victory.
(1) Rejoice evermore--This is our response to our Father's control over our life and the liberty He has given us, regardless of our circumstances or shortcomings.
(2) Pray without ceasing--This means we never close off communication with the Lord, this verse gives the thought of someone who has a chronic cough, they do it without planning or thinking about it.
(3) In everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.--The will of God is to give thanks in everything no matter what it looks like. We can rise above the problems when we acknowledge His Lordship in the midst of them.
(4) Quench not the spirit--"Do not put out the light of the Spirit". He must always be in charge because He knows the end from the beginning even though He may not fit our logic or tradition.
(5) Despise not Prophesying-- "Do not hold prophecy in low esteem" (Knox) prophecy must not be criticized, but we can war a good warfare with the prophetic words.
(6) Prove all things hold fast that which is good. --Test everything and cling to the good; we must not be gullible with prophecy, but teachable; if it is good then we should hold on to it.
(7) Abstain from all appearance of evil-- This means to avoid that which harms are causes injury to ourselves or others: to get out of the way when we see evil coming.
Scott Stimson Sr.