Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
—1 Thess. 5:18 NIV
As we gather with family and friends this holiday season, November should cause us to be more mindful of giving God thanks because of Thanksgiving. The Israelites celebrated holidays which were a reminder of how good God had been in their lives. Often times, it is easy to forget what He has done for us and how far he has brought us. With our busy-ness and schedules it is easy to forget and over-look the many blessings of God.
Paul suffered all kinds of hardships, yet he declared, “In everything give thanks.” “No matter what happens always be thankful.” Paul tells us to, “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Sometimes the circumstances of our lives are not always the best. In fact, they may be downright unpleasant, but still, we are to look for something to be thankful for. And there is ALWAYS something positive for which we can be thankful. Give thanks in all circumstances.
A positive, thankful person is a great witness in this dark world. We only shine when we are thankful. Our light shines for the Lord when we are thankful, when we live it and express it.
Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His love endures forever. —Psalm 106:1 NIV
Instead of looking at the negatives in our lives and complaining, we must look at the positives and give thanks. Giving thanks is God’s will for our lives. Giving thanks to God and others is what pleases the Lord.
One of the greatest privileges of being a Christian is to have the capacity to give thanks regardless of what happens. It is easy to be thankful when things are going our way, but a child of God can rise above any situation to thank God for causing all things to work together for our good. Paul, the apostle, was a man who suffered a great deal of pain and yet he wrote, “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Let every circumstance this month teach us how to be more grateful and thankful for all God has done for us. Let our energy and focus this month treat every problem as an opportunity to advance God’s kingdom and righteousness. Allow every joy and blessing be an occasion to give God praise and worship for his goodness, kindness, mercy and faithfulness.
Ben and Wanda Anderson, Pastors
November 2014