That's a Tall Order - gretchen huesmann

I enjoy finding out where figures of speech come from. Those who study idiom origins concur that the phrase “tall order” had its beginnings in the USA sometime in the early 19^th century but do not agree in what context. Everyone knows it refers to a difficult request. A good example is found in Paul’s first letter to the church in Thessalonica, “Give thanks in all circumstances.”

Paul’s tall order makes this reader cringe. Really Paul? All circumstances? I don’t know about you, but I can think of several situations I’d rather not give thanks for—sickness, a sudden death, financial stress, just to name a few. So why the big ask? Is Paul simply encouraging us to look at the brighter side of things? I don’t think so.

ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE

Let’s search the context of Paul’s letter for clues. Paul, no stranger to persecution, knew this church was suffering from similar hardship and sent the letter to encourage God’s people. He knew the best way to endure any suffering begins with an attitude of gratitude, as demonstrated in both his greeting and closing of the letter.

Yet how do we acquire a thankful mindset amid trouble and hardship? The rest of Paul’s letter contains the answers. He reminded those believers, and us, that our faith in Christ includes the Holy Spirit’s power which produces joy, despite our suffering. (1:5–6).

When we can’t imagine feeling grateful during hard times, we can pray and ask the Holy Spirit to fill us with His joy. That is what we call the peace that passes all understanding, in other words, having peace when peace and joy make no sense.

IT’S ALL ABOUT HIM

Too often we assume our struggle somehow equals failure. We think because we face opposition, for example, we must be out of God’s will. But in chapter 2, Paul explains that suffering is not a sign of failure. In fact, he lists his “successes” in the midst of severe persecution and reminds us “We are not trying to please men, but God, who tests our hearts.” (v.4)

I am a people-pleaser by nature, so this is tough for me. I struggle to obey God’s directions when I know it may displease others. Being a Christ-follower means sticking with the One who saved me and sends me, not worrying about what others think.

As Paul describes, these situations test us. They strengthen and grow our faith. For that alone, we can be thankful.

YOU INSPIRE ME

But Paul does not write simply to cheer on the church in Thessalonica. He also expresses his own delight and encouragement from their steadfast faith. In chapter 3:7–8, Paul basically says, you inspire me! Paul needed them, as much as they needed him.

The birds are gathering where I am. Hundreds of migrating geese, red-winged blackbirds, and others join forces to begin the long migration south. These created creatures instinctively know how much they need each other through the long haul.

So why do we humans isolate when what we really need is community? For many reasons, including pride in ourselves and distrust of others. Mainly, our enemy, the devil, knows he has an upper hand when we detach ourselves from the family of God. When the going gets rough, resist the temptation to withdraw and seek the support of friends, family, and the church.

KEEP IT UP

As Paul wraps up another letter to a first-century church, he emphasizes, “Be joyful. Pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

This is God’s will. Not that we have it all easy-peasy.

Learn to lean on Him, on each other, and give thanks.

A tall order?

Maybe, but not too tall with God at our side.

In the comments, share a time when giving thanks – in even the toughest circumstances – brought joy.

Then read the entire book of 1 Thessalonians for more insights. (Yes! I just gave you homework.)