Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Further Reading: Psalms 100:1-5
In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 NKJV
MESSAGE
God’s will are His desires for us His children to follow. Every parent loves it when their children do what makes them happy. Similarly, God’s will are the things that make Him happy when we do them. Many however complain about not knowing what God’s will for their lives. The truth is that if you will know God’s revelational will for you, you must first know and obey His revealed will in the scriptures.
Today we will begin with Thanksgiving as God’s revealed will through His word. Humans are by nature ingrates. By this, we mean that no matter what you have done for them, they may never appreciate it. They are quick to point however to the things you have not done. Such an attitude has caused many to lose out on other benefits that God has for them.
Individuals like David who have learned to appreciate God for His goodness have proven that a life of Thanksgiving is a life of blessing. We know from the Bible that Jesus lived a similar life. On several occasions, we saw Jesus thank God before doing something. On His last night on earth, Jesus gave thanks and gave us the greatest ordinance of the holy communion. He also gave thanks at the tomb of Lazarus, and when He was about to multiply the loaves of bread and a few fishes (Matthew 26:27; Mark 8:6; John 11:41).
No wonder the life of Christ was full of miracles and testimonies. Anyone who will constantly enjoy God’s blessing must resolve to live a life of Thanksgiving. As David said, we must not forget all His benefits (Read Psalms 103:1-5).
In our reading of the day, the Bible says that we must approach God with Thanksgiving. It seems ro me as if thanksgiving gives us unhindered access to the presence, which can translate into the unhindered flow of His blessings. However, Thanksgiving to God is not only expected when it is convenient but when it is also not.
Think about Jesus giving thanks the night before He was to face the greatest pain known to anyone on earth, or giving thanks at the burial place of Lazarus. It shows that God wants us to thank Him in all seasons both good and bad.
To be able to thank God in difficult times may be hard, but the Holy Spirit who helps in our weakness can certainly help us believers to offer thanks to God. Our text says in all things, we give thanks, it is God’s will. Allow God’s Spirit to walk in you and help you live this life of thankfulness from today.
REFLECTION
Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms.
Psalms 95:2 NKJV
Thanksgiving is God’s will, how often do you thank Him? Christians should reflect and make amends where necessary.
PRAYER
Father, thank you for everything you have done for me. Help me to always give thanks in every situation.
