Give Thanks
“Stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD, and likewise at evening.” (1 Chronicles 23:30) Written in the chronicles of the kings of God’s people in Israel, those words are very similar to Paul’s instruction to the believers in Thessalonica, “In everything give thanks.” (I Thessalonians 5:18)
The apostle finishes that verse by informing Christians that it is the will of God to do so. There are two types of situat
ions that we find ourselves in at any given time: good ones or bad ones. Our natural response is contrary to God’s plan for us. When things go badly, we tend to get desperate and take control of matters. When things go well, we tend to feel satisfied and take credit for the results. Both of these responses are wrong and rob God of His glory in our lives. Romans 5:3-4 tells us to, “also glory in tribulations.” Why? Because “tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character.” God is building Christ-like character qualities in our lives. It is through suffering (difficulties) that character development is accomplished. He also wants the glory for it when the job is done. On the other hand, Paul confronts us for taking credit for blessings: “Now if you did indeed receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it?” (1 Corinthians 4:7) If it were not for God’s grace in provision, you would have nothing. The Lord wants to be glorified in our lives regardless of situation. If you are going through a struggle right now, let Him work out His grace by using the situation to conform you more into the image of His Son. If you are experiencing His blessing right now, let His mighty works be made known to all as a testimony of His power. “In everything give thanks.” When the opportunity is made available to you, share a testimony of how God is working in your life.
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.
