“It is good to give thanks to the LORD.” When you think about it, tthere is much to be thankful for, both physically and spiritually. In the physical, such things as life, health, food, clothing, air, water, housing, food, income, etc. But more importantly, in the spiritual, our calling, repentance, redemption, salvation, justification, sanctification, the hope of heaven and all its glory, the assurance of our salvation, etc. Yes, it is “GOOD” to give thanks to the LORD, and the effect of giving thanks to Him is that it tends to lead to a happy and joyous life, a life of contentment, a life of happiness, and a life of peace.
An unthankful mind is an unhappy mind which usually results in murmuring, complaining, a dissatisfied mind, these making for a miserable way to live. We can see around us that a lack of thankfulness defines the times we are in (2 Timothy 3:1-5). But that should not define us who belong to Christ. Thankfulness should be in the life of every Christian because He (the LORD) has given us great blessings in Christ. A thankful attitude, a greatful heart, should be overflowing in us everyday. How about today? Are you thankful to the LORD? Are you grateful to the LORD? Just listen to how these verses in the Psalms speak to giving thanks to the LORD – (Psalm 50:23) (Psalm 52:9) (Psalm 54:6) (Psalm 107:21-22) (Psalm 147:1) (Ephesians 5:20) (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Not only are we to be thankful in everything, but for everything. To understand why this is God’s will for you let’s consider…..
1. The Need To Give Thanks
- Ingratitude displeases God – it is among the sins that define the perilous times we’re in
- Read: (2 Timothy 3:1-5) (Romans 1:18-21)
2. We Need An Attitude Of Gratitude
- Thankful for what the Father has done for us – (Colossians 1:9-14)
- Abounding in thanksgiving – (Colossians 2:7)
- A part of the “garment” we are to put on as a “New Man” – (Colossians 3:12-15)
- Giving of thanks is to be a complement to our prayers – (Colossians 4:2) (1 Timothy 2:1-7)
- Thankfulness is the key to overcoming anxiety, to obtaining the peace of God which surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:6-7). It is the key to praying without ceasing and to rejoicing always (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). Think about it, when we give thanks in everything we will pray without ceasing, and when we pray without ceasing we will rejoice always. Being thankful is something we all struggle with from time to time, yet being thankful is something God wants from His saints all the time (Psalm 116:17) (Hebrews 13:15). Today, spend some time thanking Him.