Today’s devotional comes from I Thessalonians. 5:18 It’s part of a larger closing message that Paul shares with the church in Thessalonica. He is giving his closing thoughts to the church on how they can live their best lives. He asks about respecting leaders, living peaceably among others, warn people of the danger of living in sin, comfort those discouraged, help the weak, be patient always pursue what is good for one another and for all. Always rejoice, constantly pray… Can you imagine what our world what it would look like if we all lived this way? But Paul says something that really caught my eye. “In EVERYTHING give thanks”. In everything? Wow, there are moments when I don’t think I could give thanks. The jerk who cuts me off in traffic, the boss who tells me I did something wrong, the friend who stabs me in the back…really? Where is the thanks in that? But if I have an attitude of gratitude, my perspective will change. Instead of looking at others with bad intentions, I see the possibilities and opportunities. That jerk may have saved my life by forcing me to slow down. That boss might be helping me be better so I can improve and lead bigger projects. I might have misinterpreted what my friend said and extending grace brings us closer together.
Ok, Paul, I see your point. If I am thankful in all things, then I am less stressed and angry and more joyful and at peace. Being thankful in all things is a sign that I trust God and he can rule and reign in my life without me trying to control and shape Him into my image. Instead I can see the world through His eyes and begin to reflect His character to others. Lord help us to be thankful in all things. Help us to trust you and allow you to work through us even in the stressful moments of life. You will guide us and shape us to be exactly who you created us to be. You will help us live our best life!.
Bodacious Brays 