I Thessalonians 5:18- “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
Did you read this verse and think, “How can we give thanks in the midst of disasters and death?”
Doesn’t God see the devastation caused by floods, fires, and acts of violence in our country?
Three things stand out to me:
1. God is asking us to be thankful, not necessarily for the circumstances, but in the midst of them to retain a thankful attitude for what we do have.
2. Giving thanks is not based on our present circumstances.
In giving thanks, we are not denying our current hurts. We are, however, showing our thankfulness for our position in Christ and the joy ahead of us because we have put our faith in Jesus. Faith that his death, burial, and resurrection saves us from our sins and assures our eternal life.
We focus on the “joy that is set before us”…that deep inner joy that abides in spite of our disappointments and struggles.
When we lead lives of gratitude and Thanksgiving every day, it will change our whole perspective on life. By focusing on our blessings and sharing what we have with others, we understand the true meaning of thankfulness.
3. And, finally, instead of asking, “Why me?”, we should ask “What for?” Why does all of this happen? It is ultimately to display the reality of Jesus…to bring glory to God…to accomplish his ultimate will and purpose.
This season, let’s give thanks in the midst of pain, anguish, and loss, looking ahead to the joy we have in Christ Jesus.
spiritualsnippets.com 