READ: I THESSALONIANS 5:16-18
“Give thanks in all circumstances for this is the will of God.” A lot of folks have trouble determining exactly what God’s will is for their life. But here it could not be any clearer. We are to live as thankful people. God does not need our flattery, but God knows that for the sake of our souls and our well being, we need to say thank you. You are healthier when you focus on your blessings instead of your burdens.
Notice the Lord does not say that we have to be thankful for all circumstances. Some circumstances are horrible. We don’t have to be thankful for cancer or tragedies. But we are reminded, that in the midst of the tough stuff, don’t ever lose sight of your blessings. Look over your life and write down all the blessings that you have had over a lifetime. Then write down all the burdens. The list of blessings will far outnumber the burdens. No matter how difficult some days are, continue to count your blessings. Giving thanks is the will of God. The result of living with a thankful heart is that you are living inside the will of God, and when you are inside His will the result is living in His peace.
“Give thanks in all circumstances for this is the will of God.” A lot of folks have trouble determining exactly what God’s will is for their life. But here it could not be any clearer. We are to live as thankful people. God does not need our flattery, but God knows that for the sake of our souls and our well being, we need to say thank you. You are healthier when you focus on your blessings instead of your burdens.
Notice the Lord does not say that we have to be thankful for all circumstances. Some circumstances are horrible. We don’t have to be thankful for cancer or tragedies. But we are reminded, that in the midst of the tough stuff, don’t ever lose sight of your blessings. Look over your life and write down all the blessings that you have had over a lifetime. Then write down all the burdens. The list of blessings will far outnumber the burdens. No matter how difficult some days are, continue to count your blessings. Giving thanks is the will of God. The result of living with a thankful heart is that you are living inside the will of God, and when you are inside His will the result is living in His peace.
– Dr. Tim Thompson