What Gratitude Gives

“...give thanks in all circumstances…”
1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV)

We all believe that we should be thankful at least for certain things at certain times. But that is not the quality of life that God has for you. You are created to experience the joy and peace of giving thanks to God.

The Greek translation of today’s verse could be said “give thanks in all things.” If Paul had said, “Give thanks in most circumstances” or “most of the time”, that might seem easier. Most of us are willing to thank God in “good circumstances” and we certainly could live with that. But the Apostle Paul says you are to give thanks in all things and at all times. 

Today’s verse instructs you to give thanks in all circumstances, not necessarily for all circumstances. God will give you the power to thank Him in every circumstance–because no circumstance is too dark or heavy when the Light is right beside you. You can be thankful and joyful in all of life’s ups and downs through Christ.

Do you know one of the reasons why God allows bad things to happen to us is to move us to thanksgiving? In another book to another church, Paul was writing about all the difficult things that Christians experience from oppression, to persecution, to death. Then he said this, “All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.” (2 Corinthians 4:15, NIV) In other words, even the difficulties in your life can be used to bring you closer to Him–and you can thank God for that assurance. 

On this Giving Tuesday, you can give thanks to God. You may give thanks because of what you have gained or give thanks despite what you have lost. Either way, you will experience the gifts of joy and contentment that gratitude gives. 

Gratitude releases contentment and helps you see divine perspective across the landscape of your life. Allow God to help you give thanks so that in all things, you too can experience the peace and joy that come from giving thanks to God. 

Prayer: Dear Father, Thank You that You are taking all of the circumstances in my life and working them into Your good plan. Thank You for loving me, for always blessing me. Lord, I welcome Your Holy Spirit right now, and pray that You would help me give thanks each day so that I can live in the contentment and joy that only come from You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.