In All Things
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
In every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (Amplified Version)
“Give thanks in all circumstances,” is a very commonly quoted Bible verse that is used to encourage believers as they face a challenging event or tough season. But many times, individuals argue, “how can we be thankful when we are suffering or hurting? Why would we be thankful when life is overwhelming?” Have you ever heard someone make a comment like this? Or maybe you have made it, or at least thought it.
The truth is, God has specific purposes in directing us to give thanks in every situation. First, for clarification, you are not giving thanks for the circumstance you are facing, but giving thanks to the One who is guiding you through it. We are thanking Yahweh God for His presence in the storm, for His grace when we fail, for His love when we are alone, and for His comfort in our pain. He is the source that enables us to endure the struggle, and to come out on the other side that much greater. Giving thanks does a work in us, and it increases our faith, establishes our character, and develops perseverance. It makes us more dependent on Christ and less on our own ability.
Secondly, “giving thanks in all circumstances,” includes giving thanks even in the great times. This concept seems straight forward, but we would be amazed how often in times of trouble people cry out Abba Father, but in abundance will ignore Him. Too often, when the season is prosperous and going fantastic, we “forget” to give thanks. The nature of people is when we need God for help, we turn to Him and solicit His help. But when things are good, we generally turn our focus on the joy and not on the One who supplies it.
Lastly, “it is the will of God,” for you to give thanks in all things. If you understand point one and two, you realize why this is God’s will for us. It is to help you, it is to change you, and it is to encourage you. So, as you start your day, do the will of the Lord and give thanks!!!