June 29, 2024
Giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ
-Ephesians 5:20
The leading verse instructs us to "give thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." The verse emphasizes the importance of gratitude in every situation—whether good, bad, or ugly.
True and sincere thanksgiving, especially when circumstances are challenging, is a profound expression of faith in and honor to God.
Firstly, thanksgiving is elevating God above our challenges. It is easy to thank God when things are going well. Victories and blessings naturally elicit gratitude. However, the true test of faith is giving thanks in difficult times. Job is a powerful example of this. Despite facing calamity after calamity, Job bowed down and worshiped the Lord (Job 1:20-21). Thanksgiving during trials can be hard, but it honors God immensely.
Second, thanksgiving is akin to honoring God. Think of a military officer receiving a promotion and being decorated with new insignia. When we give thanks to God, we are essentially decorating Him with honor. Psalm 50:23 states, "But giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honors me." This imagery helps us understand that our gratitude brings glory to God.
Third, when we honor God with our thanksgiving, we activate a divine principle found in 1 Samuel 2:30, where God says, "But I will honor those who honor me." If we need help or blessings from God, we should focus on honoring Him through sincere gratitude. Avoid a transactional mindset— which is, thanking God merely to receive something in return. Instead, let our thanksgiving be an act of worship and honor, focusing on the relational aspect.
Lastly, thanksgiving opens doors. Psalm 100:4 teaches us to "Enter His gates with thanksgiving; go into His courts with praise." Thanksgiving is the key that opens the gates to God's presence. When we thank God, we gain access to His courts, and this principle can be applied to other areas of our lives. If thanksgiving can open the gates of heaven, it can also open any other closed doors in our lives. It is a master key that unlocks blessings and breakthroughs.
Let us embrace a lifestyle of thanksgiving, not just for the benefits it brings, but because it honors our Creator. In every situation, whether good or bad, let our hearts be filled with gratitude. As we focus on the relational aspect of thanksgiving, we will see God’s power manifested in our lives in extraordinary ways.
Song of Worship
You are Jireh, You are enough
Jireh, You are enough
And I will be content in every circumstance
You are Jireh, You are enough Jireh. Song by Elevation Worship & Maverick City
Prayer - Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude. We thank You in all circumstances, knowing that our thanksgiving honors You. Help us to always focus on our relationship with You, and not just on the benefits of Your blessings. May our lives be a continuous expression of gratitude, unlocking Your power and presence in every area. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Bible in 1 year: Job 14-16