"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” I Thessalonians 5:18 NIV
Jesus was a great example of a thanks-giver. He gave thanks when He fed the 4,000 men on a hillside. There were over 4,000 men (that doesn’t include women or children) listening to Jesus preach and they became hungry. Jesus could have become frustrated and upset because these people didn’t bring food with them and their problem became His. Instead, Jesus thanked God for what was available (five loaves and two fish). Then He multiplied the food and fed that hungry crowd with lots of food left over!
What example did Jesus give? He gave thanks when good and bad things happened. He was thankful for food even though it was a small amount. He performed a miracle and there was joy on that mountainside! That example is key to a joyful life because when we give thanks in all things, we experience joy! For instance, you may not be happy that you are sick, but you can show gratitude that you have medicine and people to take care of you. You may not like the fashion or style of your clothes, but you can be thankful you have clothes to wear. Thanksgiving is about placing our eyes of God.
Of course, when things are going well, we must remember that God gives all blessings and good things. Often it is easy to forget about God when everything is going smoothly. In this thanksgiving season, let’s remember to give thanks to God at all times and every day.
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