I Am Is Your All

Giving Thanks
In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 NKJV
So much could be, and has been, said about the power, the benefits, and the blessings of giving thanks. However, it is not magical—it’s quite logical. Giving thanks helps us to focus on the good things in our lives: family, friends, work, talents, homes, etc. We focus on God’s love, faithfulness, provision, and comfort. When we focus on these good things, we drive dark and discouraging things into the background. Although they remain, they no longer overwhelm. Giving thanks lifts us to a place in God where we can see difficult situations in the light of his hope, grace, love, power, and glory.
Years ago, giving thanks in all things was a popular teaching that I was learning to incorporate in my relationship to God. When a devastating situation struck, the Lord prompted me to thank him for it and continue to thank him for it. Instead of being brought low, I was lifted higher in the Lord than I had ever been in my life—so high that his perspective became mine. I visualized myself crawling out on a limb, sustained only by God’s promises. I would find out if God could do what the Bible said. And he did! I got my miracle. That experience so settled me in God’s love, faithfulness, and power that I was forever changed.
Remember
If God says to give thanks in everything, we can do it.
Today I will
Name one situation that has discouraged me.
Give thanks in that situation.
Place it in proper perspective.