Dear Ones:
In this life of faith in Christ, there is a most essential act and attitude of faith that we must be careful to practice and live, a life of thankfulness. The Psalmist tells us that we are to, “…enter His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise.” (Ps. 100:4) Why does he say this? For one reason, it is because it is an acknowledgement of God as our Creator and Sustainer in life, who “causes His rain to fall on the good and the evil,” and is the “…Giver of every good and perfect gift.” In other words, it is by Him that we live, move, and have our being. Without Him we would not exist, much less live by His Life. The man or woman of faith realizes this, and on a daily basis, is cognizant of this reality. One of the consistent expressions of his faith is his thankful heart.
The subject of the giving of thanks is further exemplified in Paul’s epistle to the Romans. He is addressing the issue of the ungodliness and unrighteousness of man, and the consequent manifestation of the wrath of God. He writes: “…when they knew God, they glorified Him not as God, NEITHER WERE THANKFUL…” (Romans 1:21) Why would he interject this phrase into this subject? It is because thankfulness is an integral part of faith, the very expression of recognizing God as the Creator and Sustainer in life. It is the profession of our dependence upon Him for all that is good. The ungodly and unrighteous person has refused to adhere to this reality. Indeed, he or she has rejected the entire notion of who God is, and what He does. Not so with the believer. The more the believer discovers who God is, the more thankful he or she becomes.
So, for the Christian, the disciple of Christ, what is he called to be, and to do? “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (1 Thess. 5:18) Since God never changes, ALWAYS our Creator and Sustainer (…and Redeemer), there is not a moment in our lives when we are not to be thankful. To walk by faith is to BE thankful.
Thanksgiving is also tied to the matter of prayer, for again, it is an expression of faith. “Be careful (anxious) for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, WITH THANKSGIVING, let your requests be made known unto God.” (Phil. 4:6) The man who believes God answers prayer is the man who is thankful that he is heard of God, and that God is faithful to answer according to His will in His way and time. Thankfulness is acceptance by faith.
Lastly, thankfulness is associated with the peace of God. Paul writes to the Colossians: “…And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body: BE YE THANKFUL.” (3:15) The man or woman who is walking by faith is prayerfully believing in the God of peace, and the consequent peace given by the Spirit. The believer seeks to remain in an attitude of thankfulness, ever believing in the Sovereign God who has set His love upon him or her.
Gracious Lord, grant to us Thy blessed Spirit of thankfulness, that we might always be thankful. Enable us to choose to be thankful at all times, and in every circumstance, rejoicing in Thy goodness and mercy…well pleasing in Thy sight. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Love, Dad