Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV

Have you ever observed the witness / testimony of a person that is thankful in every situation of life?  This person acknowledges that God is at work conforming them into the image of Himself.  They are moldable clay in the hand of the potter to do with as he chooses.  Without a doubt the end result will bring God much glory by the beautiful work he will accomplish in that persons life.   “This is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” 1 Thessalonians 5:18   How does a person become a thankful person in every situations?  Let me give some ideas that will help to  grow you into being this type of person.

First, know that all things work together for good:  “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his  purpose.” Romans 8:28 ESV   There will be times you may not understand why certain things are happening in your life.  But if you believe all things work together for good, you will rest in God.  You may ask when experiencing  heart ache, “Why is this happening?”  The fact is, it could be preparing you to minister to someone else who will be experiencing the same thing in the days ahead.  Another reason could be that life just happens.  Good and bad are simply part of the imperfect world we live in, and life will not always go as we hoped.  But we must look for God’s hand to guide us through every circumstance, and the best place to start is by giving thanks.

Second, be willing to acknowledge the Lord, in every step of your life.  Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV  The Message Bible states it this way, ”Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own.  Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; He’s the one who will keep you on track.”  I believe this statement to be true; “If he brought you to it, he will take you through it.”   When leading the people of Israel out of Egypt, he brought them to the shore line of the Red Sea.  When all seemed lost and the enemy was closing in, he parted the sea, and they walked through on dry ground.  It is encouraging to know that God is with you in every step of life that you make each day.  No matter what the circumstance.

Thirdly, Be content.  “Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.” Philippians 4:11 ESV …..  But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.        1 Timothy 6:8 ESV ….  Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said,”I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5ESV   Discontentment breeds unthankful hearts.  You are learning thankfulness when you don’t depend upon the the things of the world to make you happy…. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever. 1 John 2:17 ESV   What is the will of God?  To, Give thanks in all circumstances. 

     So how do you live a thankful life.  Start by considering all the points above and then in your prayers thank God.  You may not understand all the whys of life, but what you do need to know is God, and trust that He is in control.  Then live out loud the thankfulness to the glory of God.  “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17 ESV  

Because of His Grace ~ Pastor David