”give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:18New International Version (NIV)
1 Thessalonians 5:18 Devotional
Give Thanks
I n 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Paul commands you and me to “give thanks”, in everything, because this is God’s will is for you. That is, Paul didn’t tell them to give thanks for everything. He exhorted them to give thanks for everything. By using the preposition in (Greek en), Paul challenged the Thessalonians to be thankful in any circumstance.
He wanted them to be contented in any circumstance that they would find themselves in. God allows men to go through various events for His purposes (Romans 8:28). Meaning that Christ then strengthens us for whatever situations we might face (Philippians 4:11–13).
Therefore, you must cultivate an attitude of giving thanks (gratitude and contentment) in all circumstances (situations). Thanksliving is a choice that you have to make and follow through in good and bad situations. In other words, thanksgiving is not confined to a specific day or time.
The lifestyle of thanksgiving:
- reveals your faith in God (Psalm 106:1 and 1 Chronicles 16:34) – that God is your source (of goodness),
- enables you to see God’s hand at work in your life,
- makes you healthy physically, mentally, psychologically, and socially,
- breeds contentment (Philippians 4:11),
- can be demonstrated through prayer, praise, worship, giving, and serving.
You ought to count your blessings because God is good. Hence, He always showers you with this good (James 1:17).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, please let me know more of your will concerning thanksgiving. I need to be able to give thanks in all my circumstances. This is my prayer in Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Blessing
May you be always conscious of, and give thanks, for the blessings of God in your life. Amen.
Daily Bible Reading
Job 1-4 (see How to Read the Bible in One Year or How to Read the Bible (for Beginners))
