The last few weeks I have been reading and re-reading 1 Thessalonians 5:16-22. I’m supposed to “rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks” (NASB). And then Paul says that ‘this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (NASB). I’m supposed to have continual joy. I’m supposed to be talking to God, expressing my dependence on Him all day, throughout the day. I’m supposed to thank Him for everything that enters my life. Why do I so often fail? For me, I am not walking ‘by the Spirit’ as Paul says in Galatians 5:16. The Holy Spirit is the one who replicates the life of Christ in me. The Spirit produces joy and thankfulness in me that is not contingent on my circumstances. So again, this morning I come to the Lord and confess my self-dependence instead of God-dependence. Lord please fill me with your Spirit. Instead of me thinking that I need to figure out the path, You know the path. Help me trust you. Father, please replicate the life of Jesus in me today.