Give Thanks to the Lord

 

“Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!” (1 Chron. 16:34).

 

This Thursday we will celebrate Thanksgiving.  It's a day set aside to remember how blessed we are as a nation, and to give thanks for these blessings.  Certainly, it is right for us to do so.  As Americans, we should stop and consider our standard of living, the degree of material prosperity we enjoy, and all the other blessings we have the benefit of by being citizens of this country.  In other nations, poverty, the horror of war and terrorism, and a general uncertainty about life are grim realities of daily living.  Even with all the problems our society faces, there is much to be thankful for.

 

The attitude of thanksgiving is basic to being a Christian.  Scripture reminds us of the blessings we enjoy from God each day, and how grateful we should be.  As Paul reminded the Colossians, we should have hearts “abounding in thanksgiving” (Col. 2:7).  God is not only the source of our physical blessings (Jas. 1:17), but all that is spiritual (Eph. 1:3).

                                                                                         

Even in adversity, we can still give thanks.  God can use times of trial to discipline us, to draw us closer to Him (Heb. 12:5-11; 1 Pet. 1:6-7).  Even in distress, we know God is with us, to strengthen and help us along the way.  “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose” (Rom. 8:28).

 

No wonder we are exhorted, “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through to God the Father through him” (Col. 3:17).  If all one can do is murmur or complain, that person doesn't understand what life in Christ is all about.  Make thanksgiving more than a holiday, but also a way of life.  Take time to consider all the ways God has blessed you physically, materially, and most importantly, spiritually.  To realize the richness of His blessings should promote thankfulness from the heart.  “Praise the Lord!  Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for his steadfast love endures forever” (Psalm 106:1).

 

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.”

 

Robert