The Apostle Paul said “In EVERYTHING give thanks for this (giving thanks for everything) is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” I Thess. 5:18
How can we give thanks for everything? First we must realize that we are “in Christ Jesus.” Our very breath comes from God, our life is hid in Christ Jesus according to Colossians 3:3! Hid means concealed. When we are true believers nothing can happen to us that is not allowed by God who is the author and finisher of our faith. Remember however that God has put certain laws and principles in place. If we step away from those principles and go our own way there are consequences. For instance, God tells us not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers. If we are we will bear the consequences of our decision. For the sake of our devotion today I am assuming we are in the will of God and relying on Him for our direction and living in obedience to His word. Since we are then we are “IN Christ Jesus” and our life is concealed. This is how and why we can give thanks in EVERYTHING! Because He knows and cares for us. He will perfect all that concerns us!
Secondly we can give thanks in everything by doing what the famous quote by Charles Dickens says. “Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.”
This quote is so true. We have all had bad things happen. Some that we could control and some that were forced upon us. For a healthy outlook on life we must move forward and have an attitude of gratitude for where we are today. Standing firm that God has a plan and we are right in the middle of it.
Today begin to have an Attitude of Gratitude! You will be right in the center of God's will!!