Thankfulness – Today and Always

1 Thessalonians 5.12-24

        During this time of Thanksgiving celebrations, may we take time to consider our reasons we have to be thankful. Paul’s command to the church at Thessalonica is clearly and succinctly stated: “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5.18). Thankfulness is a decision, a definite choice, even when we do  not understand or necessarily like what is happening. We are called to give thanks in all circumstances – not just those of my liking, or those which seem profitable for me, or those which fit my agenda for life. Thankfulness is to be in every situation, in every day, through every condition. Thankfulness is not an option – it is mandatory for the believer and given as a clear command. Being thankful is the will of God. Therefore, when we choose to not be thankful, we are directly choosing an attitude contrary to God’s will.

        What motivates our thankfulness? Knowing the One and Only True God; knowing the God of all creation and He who sustains all He has made; knowing the abundance of His grace will always be sufficient for us, no matter how easy or difficult the situations of our lives; knowing Jesus Christ died on the Cross of Calvary that we could be forgiven of all sin; knowing He accepts us when we come to Him in repentance and faith; knowing that in His resurrection we have hope over all sin and death; knowing He has loved us with an everlasting love from before the foundation of the worlds were formed; knowing He has adopted us into His eternal family and someday we will see Jesus; knowing His sovereign design is perfect; knowing He is at work for His glory and always for our good, regardless of what we see or understand; knowing He will be glorified in all things; and knowing the reasons are endless. Giving thanks is the opposite of doubt, bitterness, complaining, and discontent. Knowing Jesus Christ, may it be our goal and desire to ever have a thankful heart which will lead to a joyful and contented heart.  

Knowing Jesus as our Savior – we have much to be thankful for –
Terry Burlingame