The Apostle Paul
1 Thessalonians 5:16BSB·traditional attribution

Rejoice at all times.

John Calvin Reformed

Rejoicing always means keeping your mind calm under adversity, not wallowing in grief. Prayer is how you do it: bring your anxieties to God, ask for relief, and give thanks at the same time. If you meditate on what Christ has given you, sorrow cannot overcome you.

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Matthew Henry Presbyterian

Spiritual joy in God can be constant; rejoice in Him and you have an everlasting feast, even when worldly troubles strike. Prayer without ceasing is the path to that joy. Thanksgiving in all things, even hardship, follows naturally when you pray, for you will always find matter to thank God for.

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Commenting on 1 Thessalonians 5:16-22

John Gill Reformed Baptist

Rejoice spiritually, not carnally: in Christ's blood, righteousness, and sacrifice, not in your own morality or strength. Rejoice in adversity too, for afflictions work for good and suffering for Christ's sake brings honor. God's covenant love is unchangeable; that alone is your unshakeable ground.

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