THANKFUL
Wayne Wilson
Today’s Scripture: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Philippians 4:6, ESV
Theme: No matter your situation, focus on the cross and your salvation, and be thankful.
EXPRESSION OF THANKS
The Tyndale Bible Dictionary defines gratitude as “a natural expression of thanks in response to blessings, protection, or love. In the Judeo-Christian tradition, gratitude is not a tool used to manipulate the will of God. It is never coerced or fabricated in one’s mind; rather, gratitude is a joyful commitment of one’s personality to God.”
This resource goes on to say, “In the Old Testament, gratitude to God was the only condition in which life could be enjoyed.” For Jews, every aspect of creation provided evidence of God’s lordship over all life. The Hebrew people thanked Him for the magnificence of the universe (Psalms 19:1–4; 33:6–9; 104:1–24). When they received good news, they thanked God for His goodness and great deeds (1 Chronicles 16:8–12). When they received bad news, they also gave thanks, trusting that He was a just God (Job 1:21).
THE SECRET
Jesus followers give thanks to God “in whatever situation” we find ourselves (Philippians 4:11, ESV). The apostle Paul, who gave his life to sharing the teachings of Jesus, says, “I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through [Christ] who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:12-13, ESV).
Make It Personal: This week, you can face any situation when you place your thoughts on what Christ has done for you. Focus on the cross and the Resurrection, and how that provided for your salvation. In prayer, ask the Holy Spirit to be with you and remind you of how good God has been. Choose to be thankful and content.
Pray: Father God, every good thing in my life comes from You. When the “not-so-good" things happen, I can still trust You. Help me, Spirit, to be thankful, trusting, and content in all situations. Amen
Read: Psalm 19:1-4; Philippians 4:4-7, 11-13
Memory Verse of the Week: “And Peter answered him, ‘Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.’ He said, ‘Come.’ So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus.” Matthew 14:28-29, ESV