LEARNING DAILY

1 Thessalonians 5:18, In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

 It is a simple verse with profound application. Sadly, it seems to take a lot of work to be thankful for what we have. I bet it is safe to say that none of us wake up and the first thing we think about is expressing gratitude for all we have. It becomes harder to do when facing circumstances that are difficult or just when I feel a bit discouraged. I have been disappointed more than once when a simple thank you was not given for a gift given or an encouraging comment or gesture was made toward another.

Yet, Paul’s statement is for people, especially Believers, to give thanks in all things. It is a statement that is really timeless. It is not about giving God thanks for the bad things that occur in our life; it is more about recognizing that God is at work in our lives even when times are difficult. God is at work in the lives of Believers, even during the difficult times (Romans 8:28).

The Thanksgiving season is often a time to reflect on the abundance of good things in our lives. Do this. Make a list of all the things you are thankful for; do not include the people in your life individually. Are you surprised how your list grows? Add to your list over the next few days. Do you know what this will do? It will help you develop a habit of “giving thanks in all things”! Are you able to give thanks in the difficult times when the good that God is doing is not yet seen?

Paul also writes being thankful is God’s will for your life! That pretty much takes the option out of doing so. I wonder if “giving thanks in all things” is an aspect of prayer where we just stop asking and giving God praise and thanksgiving to Him for what He faithfully does each day for Believers! “Giving thanks in all things” recognizes who God is in the Believer’s life; He is sovereign and the Believer’s thanks is in response to what He does in creating circumstances to help us grow in Him, keeps from harm, or just shows the Believer He can be trusted.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 is a strong statement that directs every Believer to live in constant gratitude which recognizes the hand of God in all circumstances. “Giving thanks in all things” helps the Believer to not only be thankful for what is happening in the present on the narrow way into God’s kingdom but to recognize and give thanks that eternity is near for all Believers. “Giving thanks in all things” encourages Believers to walk in faith with Jesus, trusting His good and perfect will for their live.

There will be no blog on Thanksgiving Day. From my family to yours, may the Father bless you and your family mightily. Take the time during the busyness of the day to remember His goodness and the many blessings He has given to you. Happy Thanksgiving!