Give Thanks!

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ~ Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (NIV)

Are you struggling to feel thankful? We all know that everyday should be a day of thanksgiving. However, as we enter the holiday season, it can be a difficult time for some people, such as those that have lost a loved one, or are struggling financially or suffering from an illness or loneliness. Sometimes our situations can cloud our view and make it difficult to see all that we should be thankful for. In these verses, Paul encourages us to not allow our circumstances or situations to affect our praise and worship. We are to give thanks IN ALL circumstances. We are to be thankful for God’s presence in our situations by remembering that He said He would never leave or forsake us. Whatever God has allowed into our lives, He is using that situation for our good and to accomplish His purpose and will. That includes the trials and hardships that we all experience. Bishop T.D. Jakes once stated in a message, “the more frustrating the environment, the more fruitful the individual.” Know that whatever the situation may be; God is developing you into a more fruitful person.

Just like James, we are to count it all joy. (James 1:2). How do we find joy in the difficult situations? By praising God, worshipping Him and being thankful in our prayers. The peace that comes into your heart when you praise God is indescribable. So join me in a prayer of thanksgiving to our Heavenly Father.

Prayer: Lord, I am thankful for Your grace and mercy. I am thankful for Your love and forgiveness. I am thankful for each and every one of you. I am thankful that God has allowed our paths to cross. I am thankful for how He is shaping our lives for His glory and His purpose. AMEN.

Purpose in Action: Take some time to list out 10 things that you are thankful for today. Then, spend some time praising God for all His blessings.  I would love to share in your praise, please leave a comment of what you are thankful for.

For His Purpose,

LiKeisha