It’s been said, “If you have nothing for which to be thankful, make up your mind that there’s something wrong with you.” As Christians, we are called to be giving constant thanks to the Lord. I think we have a hard time understanding what it means to give constant thanks. As a people, it’s very easy to focus on all the negatives and trials and sweep the positives under the rug. We constantly focus on what we don’t have or where we are not at.
It’s partly because we live in such a rich society. If we work hard and save our money, we can attain almost anything we desire. This leads one to think that they have attained or accomplished something because of themselves instead of realizing that the Lord has blessed them in that accomplishment. Giving thanks is not a feeling. It’s giving God the credit for the blessings in our lives and getting us through the trials. When one applies this definition of giving thanks, it’s easier to be thankful when negativities and trials come on us because we know who to give the credit to for negativities and trials, Satan.
It’s his desire to separate us from God and when we are blaming God for negativities and trials instead of thanking Him for providing us a way through them, Satan’s desire is fulfilled. This is echoed by Paul in Romans 1:21,
“For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened.”
The Lord has called His people to be a thankful people and His people should desire to draw near to Him by giving Him the credit that’s due Him. I challenge you this week to set time aside in your prayers to thank the Lord and give Him the credit for the blessings in your life.
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
- 1 Thessalonians 5:18
“Praise the LORD! Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!”
- Psalms 106:1
“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
- Colossians 3:17