1 Thessalonians 5:18 (KJV)
In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
The Scripture instructs us to give thanks in all things, not some, for it is the will of God in Christ Jesus. Embracing a spirit of thanksgiving is not just beneficial; it’s essential. Thanksgiving embodies an attitude and the profound quality of being grateful. Believers who master the art of gratitude rise to remarkable heights. Those who appreciate God’s blessings achieve extraordinary success in life. In essence, we can inspire God to do even more for us through a heart filled with thanksgiving. Christians with this mindset express gratitude not only when things are going well but also during challenging times, trusting fully in God’s unwavering faithfulness to ensure they do not experience loss. Ephesians 5:20 says, “Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;” Thanksgiving focuses on who God is and what He means to us. If we wait for what God will do before we can be thankful to Him, we have waited too long. When we are grateful, our focus moves off selfish desires and the pain of current circumstances. Grateful people realize how much they have been given and do not miss greatness.
We generally think of thankfulness as a choice, but it is a matter of obedience to God’s will for our lives. Expressing thanks helps us remember that God is in control. Thanksgiving is not just appropriate; it is essential and profoundly beneficial for us. It is a powerful reminder that we are part of a greater purpose, belonging to God, and blessed with every spiritual blessing. As believers, it’s crucial that we look beyond the misleading images the enemy presents—whether in finances, health, business, marriage, or any other aspect of our lives—and choose to be thankful. We do not express gratitude for the attacks that bring sickness, poverty, fear, or any other trials. Instead, we wholeheartedly thank God for His unwavering presence and faithfulness as He empowers us to overcome these challenges. Although persecuted, Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 2:14, “Thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him.” When life throws challenges our way, choosing gratitude empowers us to focus on God’s unwavering goodness and bolsters our strength to overcome adversity. The enemy wants us to fixate on our struggles, attempting to blind us to the blessings around us. However, when we intentionally seek reasons to thank God in every situation, we thwart the enemy’s schemes and invite God’s counsel and abundance into our lives. Embracing gratitude is our pathway to triumph over hardship. Psalm 92:1 says, “It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High.” Every fall reveals a new strength waiting to be discovered. Mistakes are stepping stones, offering invaluable lessons that pave the way toward success. Regardless of affliction, each experience can transform our destiny for the better. Breakthroughs are always within reach, just waiting for us to seize them. So, no matter what life throws our way, let us boldly give thanks to God, trusting that everything will ultimately work out for our good.
Beloved, no matter what you are going through, there is always something to be thankful for! Trust in God, give Him thanks, and you will see His salvation. See beyond every challenge that you’re facing. Even if you have no legs, are blind, cannot hear, do not know what to eat, your finances are low, or you seem to be in the midst of an endless battle, still lift your hands in thanksgiving for the gift of life. Even if you lost everything, begin to thank the Lord because something beautiful is about to happen to you, and the world will hear your testimony. Just take the step of faith and begin to bless the Name of the Lord. Never neglect or take the help of God for granted, for as you see and appreciate His Goodness in your life, He will take you to higher heights. Make a habit of always thanking God for what you have, for the God of all sufficiency knows precisely the situation confronting you and still declares that abundance is your portion. Never focus on what is happening but on the Word of God. Today, look up and appreciate God for what you have and where you are! Even if you are not where you wish to be, God’s Presence in your life is enough to inspire gratitude, appreciation, and thankfulness. With a heart of thanksgiving to God, count your blessings and name them one by one. Keep praising, believing, and thanking Him because that will keep you moving forward. The way you live your life today will get you to where you need to be tomorrow. Remember, it was gratitude that brought Solomon into his place of encounter.
O Lord, thank You for all things. Forgive me for my ungratefulness, as You baptize me with the spirit of gratitude and appreciation in Jesus’ Name.