Giving Thanks

How easy is it for us to give thanks for the things that we enjoy, that we like, and for the wonderful situations that we find ourselves in? How many times though, do we give thanks for the unwanted things, the despised things, and the trials that we face? It’s rare, very rare indeed when we approach God with a thankful heart, when things aren’t going the way we want them to do. Generally, we want to blame other people for our problems, we even want to blame God for our problems and losses. Yet, what we need to do is give thanks in all circumstances, "Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thes 5:16-18 NIV emphasis mine)
The key to this, is not to give thanks for the circumstances, but in the circumstances. While we are going through the trial, give thanks to God, praise God, give the glory to God. Why? That is God’s will for you. He wants you to give thanks, regardless of the situation you find yourself in. When Paul and Silas were in prison, instead of grousing about the unfairness of the situation, complaining to anyone who wanted to hear, or even blame God, they sang hymns to God. They were giving thanks, not for the situation, but they were giving thanks to God.
What if the situation is something that we caused? Give thanks to God for the wake up call. If you get pulled over for driving under the influence, don’t blame the police, the bartender, or your neighbors dog. God allowed you to go through that situation so that you can conquer that addiction. Give thanks to God for that is what He wants.
What if the situation is something that we have no control over? "Consider it pure joy my brothers when you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. . . Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." (James 1:2,3,12 NIV) When we find ourselves in a trial, God is testing us and our faith. These trials aren’t little struggles that we find ourselves in. These trials are major faith testing scenarios. Death, illness, loss of a job, end of a relationship, and countless other things that make us question whether God exists, or even cares about us. First we should be joyful that we are facing these trials. Does that mean we don’t weep? Not at all, if we lose a loved one, for any reason, we should weep for the loss. This isn’t baseball so it’s ok to cry. But, do not consider it a curse or punishment. Realize that when we face these trials, God is trying to enhance our faith and make us grow. There are times that we get a little self absorbed, forget about God’s grace, and focus on ourselves. These trials, let us refocus on God. Sometimes, we get away from God and He uses these trials to bring us back.
What about the people in our lives that bring us misery? Give thanks for them. Love them as you love yourself. Pray for them, do not curse them. "But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you." (Luke 6:27,28 NIV). How do you do good? First and foremost, forgive them of their transgressions against you. You have to release the animosity, anger, and hurt that you have carried for this long. Pray to God to help you with the forgiveness for that person. We can not expect God to forgive us, if we don’t forgive those who transgress against us. Is it easy? No, not at all, but it is necessary, for your own sake and your own spiritual growth. Don’t seek vengeance or reparations from the person. If they stole something, forgive them, don’t ask for the object back. Yes it’s tough, but continue to read Luke, scripture even states, don’t ask for it back. Forgive them and be nice to them, and it will be like holding hot coals over their heads. Yes, it is hard and difficult, but that’s what God is there for. To help you overcome your trials. From a personal standpoint, I was stuck spiritually for a long time, and it took a while for me realize it was unforgiveness on my part. When I prayed to God to help me with my unforgiveness, I felt a burden release from me. I felt a part of me grow. I even enhanced the personal relationship with this person, and I feel no animosity towards the person. I see the person as God sees the person, one of His own.
There is only 3 times that we should thank God. When times are good. When times are normal. When times are bad. Whatever struggle, or burden you are carrying, go to God and give thanks. Ask God to help you with your struggles and commit yourself to His will.
Have a blessed week
Daniel G Vandenburg