There are lots of good reasons why we should give thanks to God. Among them the Bible tells us that “he is good” (Psalm 118:29) and “his steadfast love endures forever” (Psalm 100:5).
Praising and giving God thanks simply go together. We cannot worship God without also being thankful and offering our praise.
It is always right for us to express our appreciation for what we receive. God wants us to be thankful for “every perfect gift,” which comes down “from the Father of lights” (James 1:17).
Without gratitude to God, we become arrogant and self-centered. Many people foolishly believe that they have achieved “everything” on their own. Thankfulness to God keeps our hearts in right relationship to the One who is the giver of all good gifts.
Giving thanks to God also reminds us of how much we really do have. We are prone to focus on what we don’t have. By giving thanks, we continually are reminded of how richly God has blessed us.
We are also happier when we focus on God’s blessings rather than our wants. Our perspective can radically change as we thank God for the things we often take for granted.
We truly need to realize how fortunate we are. We cannot even breathe or exist apart from God who created us and gives us life.
While it may be easy to be thankful to God when we are happy, we also should be thankful in circumstances that are painful.
First Thessalonians 5:18 says, “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” [Underlining mine.]
God stands with us and comforts us in times of tragedy and loss. When we are hurt, afraid, or weak, God sustains us and helps us to endure (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Therefore, for every good gift given to us, for this good creation in which we live, and especially for the gift of salvation and the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ, let us join in saying, Thanks be to God!
-Pastor Mike
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