“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (KJV)
Humans sometimes live and act as if we are the center of the universe, but we are really only a small item in God’s creation. Yet, among the billions of humans who ever lived, God knows you and me. He cares about our lives and what happens to us! Have you ever considered: Why does God care about me so much? It is something to humbly consider with thanksgiving.
If you doubt the reality of God’s concern, consider the words of Jesus: “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.” Mt. 10:29-31 (KJV)
But God’s greatest concern for us is that we would be delivered from the bondage of sin. Instead of leaving us in guilt and condemnation to the Lake of Fire, God sent the Lamb who takes away our sin. His sacrifice of the Lamb on Calvary was the method by which he took away our sin. And now because of his sacrifice, we can enjoy eternal life.
Note how God explains his actions and especially the wonderful promise contained therein: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” John 3:16-17 (KJV)
Are there really people so ignorant and so arrogant that they can live without giving thanks to God? We are special in his eyes, is he special in ours? Just think of that one great sacrifice that he did for us, and it will be a sufficient reason give thanks in all things. Gratitude! What a small thing to give in return for what God has done for us! Of course, our hearts are filled with gratitude for his sacrifice and the deliverance it brought.
Gratitude is how we respond to the grace of God. In his infinite grace, God has given us material blessings that are greater than any other nation in history. In America, we enjoy a standard of living greater than most other nations. But prosperity without Jesus in our hearts and lives, is truly worthless. For what is wealth’s benefits if we gain the whole world but lose our souls?
As we celebrate this Thanksgiving holiday, I am not suggesting that we work up emotions that are not in our hearts. Rather, I suggest that we respond to God’s grace in our lives with joyful gratitude, because he has blessed us beyond our wildest dreams. If God had not blessed you with a single material blessing this past year, could you still shout praise and gratitude by knowing that Jesus Christ is your Savior and Lord? That single blessing is a good thing to thank him for.
Dear Father, thank you for your love care for us. Give us a grateful heart so that we may obey your will by giving thanks in everything. In the name of Jesus I pray. AMEN
Be encouraged today as you give thanks for a good thing,