In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (1Thes. 5:19)
Give thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, (Eph. 5:20)
In our current environment, we may balk at the idea of giving thanks “in” and “for” all things. But we’re instructed in God’s Word to do just that, and for important reasons (1 Thes. 5:19; Eph. 5:20). We submit to God and obey him by giving thanks and praise, even in times of trouble and corruption.
Everything happens for a purpose. We’re told in Romans 8:28 that “all things work together for good.” God is unfolding His story. He controls every puzzle piece, and when, where, and how it fits into His bigger picture. He knows what He’s doing in our lives and in all circumstances. There are no isolated events. Everything that happens has a purpose.
Jesus was submitting to the Father’s will by going to the Cross. He endured a horrendous ordeal, but by going through that prepared the way of eternal soul salvation for all who would believe.
The ability to thank the Lord in adverse times springs from a Spirit-filled believer’s grateful attitude. But it makes no sense to the unredeemed. Ingratitude reveals unbelief. A thankless and hostile attitude stems from pride and refuses to honor God.
In this season and always, let’s stive to thank God in everything. We can trust Him. He knows what he’s doing.
God is Good; He is God; and He is in control.
--Beverly