I realize that giving thanks is customary this time of year, but it has been a tough year for me. Quite honestly, there isn’t much to thank God for. Still, I don’t like feeling this way. Can you help?
You’ve taken a very important step toward cultivating a thankful heart, and that is being honest. God isn’t offended by the way you feel. He even sympathizes with your problems. (Hebrews 4:14-16) says: “Seeing then that we have a Great High Priest, Who is passed into the Heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. 15) For we have not an High Priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 16) Let us therefore come boldly unto the Throne of Grace, that we may obtain Mercy find Grace to help in time of need.”
However, if you don’t move on into true thanksgiving and praise, you will be a prime candidate for a bitter spirit that negatively affects you and everyone around you.
That’s why God spoke through Paul that we are “in everything [to] give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
I have seen Christians put under almost unbearable strain. Yet many of these people do learn to thank God in the midst of their pressure. They refuse to feel sorry for themselves, blame someone else, or bury themselves in depression.
The heart of the matter is obedience. Will we actually give thanks to God in the burdensome times? This is “His will,” His plan for us. It may not rhyme with human logic. But we do it.
Start to thinking of one thing to thank God for. It may be for your salvation. It may be for a car that runs a pair of shoes to wear a healthy son or daughter. You will be amazed that how much you will discover to thank the heavenly Father for when you consider His involvement and blessings in your life.
As you obediently give thanks, you acknowledge several crucial Bible truths. You affirm God’s control of your life. You are not a victim of the economy or the boss’ decision.
God is at work in your life in all things. He is Lord of all – nation, men, events, circumstances.
You are not a pawn in the hands of fate. You are God’s child, and He cares for you.
You also declare your trust in Him. God is trustworthy in the most inclement conditions. He longs for believers to look confidently to Him, especially when the waters are rough. At the core of your personal relationship with Christ are trust and obedience.
That is precisely what thanksgiving accomplishes, and its value is exponentially increased when you worship God in the thick of the fray.
Thank God no matter what. God will be honored, and you will find your joy on the rise.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING
