As we have been noting, there are some things which are done and done with while others remain ongoing. It is our attitude which makes the difference in supporting ongoing actions even despite the challenges we might face in life. For example, there are circumstances or situations we might be thankful to avoid. However, even in the experience of negative things, are we learning to see that for which we can still be thankful?
Yesterday we noted an urging from Paul in his letter to Christians at Thessalonica. The very next verse exhorted. . .
“(18) give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV)
Though all circumstances may not be as we would like, are we learning to maintain an attitude of thanksgiving? According to Paul, it is God’s will that we do! At the least we could be thankful things were not worse. However, even in the midst of challenging circumstances, there are still other aspects of life for which we can give thanks. Even when someone expresses they have had a bad day it does not mean everything which happened that day was bad.
This all has to do with perspective; where we have chosen to place our focus. That is what feeds the attitude for maintaining an ongoing spirit of thanksgiving. There is much — both physically and spiritually — for which we ought to remain thankful.
Writing to Christians at Ephesus, Paul encouragingly reminded. . .
“(3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places,” (Ephesians 1:3 ESV)
Even with the blessings experienced in this realm for which we should give ongoing thanks — the gifts of God Who fully knows what we need (Matthew 6:8 & 32) — we have blessings safely kept in the security of Heaven where they will neither be destroyed, nor can they be stolen from us! (note Matthew 6:20) If we are not giving thanks, we are most likely taking God’s blessings for granted. May we never lose sight of what ought to give rise to an ongoing gratitude attitude!
Have a great day GREATLY GRATEFUL THROUGH EACH DAY GOD GIVES!
Carl
