A Verse
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
A Comment
A “god” that is only “god” during the good times is no “god” at all. We need a “god” that is “god” during the good and the bad. Only then will we be able to give thanks in all circumstances, because there will never be a circumstance that He is not God over and in. The God who has revealed Himself in Christ is the only God like this. Working out His purposes even in the pains and pleasures that we experience in this world, reminding us that we are not home yet. But we will be soon. And with such anticipation of God’s triumph over the brokenness of our world, we can (and must) give thanks.
A Prayer
Thank you, Lord, for being able to be trusted with our cares and concerns. We do not give thanks because we are out of touch with reality, but because we are in touch with You and Your will for our lives. Grant us to believe and trust in You, even when we do not see what You are doing. Grant us to give thanks in all our circumstances because of the hope that we have in Christ. In His name, Amen.
A Blessing
Now may the Savior, who has abolished death,
come to you in your sorrows,
stay by your side in the darkness,
carry you through your distresses,
and give you joy in the morning.
From Grace Be with You by Dale Ralph Davis
Give Thanks in All Circumstances