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IN EVERY THING GIVE THANKS
LORD’S DAY, DECEMBER 21
1 Thessalonians 5:18

Colossians 3:15-17

 

“In every thing give thanks…”

 

IN EVERY THING GIVE THANKS
 
The third command is “in every thing give thanks.” It means that no matter what happens, in every circumstance, we must thank God. This would necessarily include both the good things, and what we perceive as “bad things” that happen in our lives. Even when things do not go the way we expect, such as financial difficulties, personal sicknesses, or the death of loved ones, yes, in all these things, we must give thanks as well. So, whether you lose your job or get promoted, your child does well in school or is diagnosed with a terminal illness, our confidence is that all these things happen according to God’s will. As children of God, our lives are in His sovereign hands. We are ever guided by His providence and goodness. We have the assurance that all things will always work out for good to them who love God (Rom 8:28). Therefore, we can and must always give thanks, for this is God’s will for us.
 
When we give thanks, we are acknowledging God’s goodness toward us. We are giving Him the due praise that He is worthy of. On the other hand, when we fail to give thanks, we fail to give God the glory and show ourselves to be ungrateful. When life’s trials come our way, we become bitter and discontented. Instead of thanking, we keep murmuring. There are times we might even blame God and repudiate our faith. Like the people of Israel wandering through the wilderness, we are never content, but at each difficulty we encounter, we murmur and complain, not realising that our good God is actually with us every step of the way.
 
Let us make a conscious effort to always count our blessings. In every prayer we make, always begin with thanksgiving. Remember that God is the all-wise and sovereign God. His providence is all encompassing, and He always plans what is the very best for us. He is in control of all things, and always “meant it unto good” (Gen 50:20). Take time each day to reflect on the many ways in which we have been blessed by God, and indeed “it will surprise you what the Lord has done.” Even if things do not seem to be going your way and troubles abound, let us submit to the will of God and know that we can and must still give thanks.
 
THOUGHT: What can I thank God for today?

PRAYER: Father, help me always to be thankful for all things.

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