Always Talking to God: Learning to Rejoice, Pray, and Give Thanks in Everything

One of my favorite book series is by Michael J. Sullivan. The Riyria Revelations and The Riyria Chronicles are my absolute favorites (though he’s written plenty of others). I love the way he builds his characters and the depth of the storyline. Honestly, I was sad when it ended.

But there’s one character who stands out to me—not because he’s a main character, but because of how he lives. His name is Monsignor Merton.

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A Character Who Changed How I See Prayer

Monsignor Merton doesn’t believe in the God I believe in (after all, it’s a fictional story), but the way he relates to the god he does believe in really stuck with me. He talks to him as if he’s always listening. He thanks him for little things, brings him everyday concerns, and remains humble about his own role versus his god’s role.

Monsignor Merton's attitude toward his god is one that I want to foster in my relationship with the One True God.

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Thanking God in All Things

I want to always be talking to Him and remembering my place before Him. I want to thank Him for the rain—even when it changes my plans. I want to thank Him for a sweet conversation, for a good day, and yes, even in the hard times, because I trust that He is at work.

It’s easy to get caught up in the troubles of this world and forget to look to the One who holds the answers. And let’s be honest—thanking God for hard things feels unnatural. It almost feels like we’re saying we’re okay with the pain. But I don’t think that’s what it means.

When I thank God in everything, I’m acknowledging that He is in control, that He has a purpose, and that He is weaving good out of even my hardest moments.

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What Scripture Says

📖 “Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”— 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18

📖 “For it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.”— Philippians 2:13

📖 “The Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.”— Romans 8:26

These verses remind me that I don’t walk this road alone. God Himself will give me the strength to rejoice, to pray, and to give thanks. And when I don’t even know what to say, the Spirit intercedes for me.

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A Practical Step

When I feel like I can’t even pray, I try turning on a worship song and singing it out. One that encourages me is Brandon Lake’s Hard Fought Hallelujah. Sometimes just singing truth helps my heart line up with what I know to be real—that God is still good, even here.

Embracing the Journey of Faith

Faith is a journey, not a destination. It’s filled with ups and downs, twists and turns. I’ve learned that it's okay to feel lost sometimes. In those moments, I remind myself that God is still there, guiding me. I often reflect on how Monsignor Merton approaches his faith. He doesn't shy away from the tough questions. Instead, he embraces them.

I want to encourage you to do the same. Ask God your questions. Seek answers. It’s in those moments of vulnerability that I often find the most profound insights.

Finding Peace in Uncertainty

Life can be unpredictable. I’ve faced challenges that left me feeling overwhelmed. But I’ve learned that peace comes from trusting God, even when I can’t see the way forward. It’s about surrendering my fears and uncertainties to Him.

I remind myself that God has a plan. Even when I can’t see it, I trust that He is working behind the scenes. This trust doesn’t always come easily, but it’s worth striving for.

Your Takeaway

Talk to God. Every day, all day, about anything and everything on your mind. Rejoice. Pray. Give thanks. And if you can’t—rest in the truth that the Holy Spirit is interceding for you anyway.

Friend, you are loved without measure. God is waiting to hear from you.

I hope this encourages you to deepen your relationship with God. Remember, it’s okay to take it one step at a time. You’re not alone in this journey.

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