I thank my God every time I remember you. ⁴ In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy ⁵ because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, ⁶ being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Don’t you find it interesting that when we read Philippians, Paul is in prison and could be facing death, yet he still commands us to “rejoice”? Even in such a hard situation, Paul tells us to rejoice and says that being thankful is the “right” response. But isn’t it more natural for us to think that depression, negativity, pessimism, or even open defiance are fair and reasonable reactions to something as painful as imprisonment? I know I would feel that way. If I were Paul, sitting in prison, I would probably think the proper response would be despair, anger, and maybe even a dramatic outburst. But in Philippians 1:3–11, Paul spends his time remembering the believers in Philippi, and instead of feeling sorry for himself, he can’t stop thanking God—and he says that it is right for him to feel this way.

As you read today, remember that God tells you to “rejoice” and give thanks. This is not just a suggestion or a plea. God commands it because it is good and right, and he knows that when you obey, you will enjoy his presence and experience his peace and contentment.

Also, read 1 Thessalonians 5:18 and see how amazing it is that God sums up his will for your life in one word: “thankfulness.” Many of you are asking, “What is God’s will for me?” God makes it clear—his will is that you live with a thankful heart. He never promises the perfect job, education, spouse, marriage, kids, church, city, or ideal circumstances. What God does ask is that, in every situation and wherever you are, you keep being thankful. This command is good for you, and it keeps your heart focused on Jesus. When we think about God and all that he is, the only right response is to give thanks (Psalm 106:1).