Thankfulness
In the previous meditation, we were reminded that we should not dwell in or become consumed by worry in difficult circumstances. Rather, pray and trust in God’s sovereign control, perfect plan and promise to care for us. In this meditation, let’s build upon that and focus on cultivating a spirit of thankfulness!
I am sure that we could all think of someone in our life who has a thankful heart. A person who notices and celebrates the beauty around them, praising God for His abundant blessings in both good and bad circumstances. Such people stand out, they shine with positivity and create an encouraging atmosphere wherever they go. They stand out because having a spirit of thankfulness in all circumstances is not the norm.
It is easier for all of us to find fault and complain. After all, life is never perfect, right? We tend to look forward to the next best thing rather than find joy in each present moment. But, in any given moment there is something to be grateful for. Our Father is very clear in His word about what He desires from us: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5 verse 18).
We need only look at God’s response to the Israelite’s constant complaining as they travelled through the wilderness to grasp the importance of having a thankful spirit. After being delivered from slavery to Egypt, God promised to lead Israel into a land of their own, flowing with blessing and prosperity. But, instead of praise, worship and wholehearted trust, Israel responded with grumbling. It is easy to read the Old Testament and think; “How could Israel have so quickly forgotten God’s gracious deliverance and miraculous provision?” But, do we not do the same in our own lives?
Being thankful directly relates to praising God; recognising blessings and grace from Him and thanking Him for His loving kindness. How often we become discontent and forget that the very breath in our lungs is a gift. How often we protest about difficult circumstances and forget that our own or others’ faith is being lovingly nurtured and refined (James 1 verses 1 and 2). Because we lack God’s all-knowing perspective, we need to give thanks in every season and situation, regardless of how we feel about it at that time.
So, how do we guard ourselves from becoming discontent and complaining? How do we cultivate a spirit of thankfulness? We remember.
Reflect on how God has cared for you throughout your life. Ponder His miraculous works of old recorded in the Bible. Remember God’s gracious deliverance through Jesus Christ: the fact that every one of us, though sinners, have a hope of forgiveness and eternal peace and joy as a child of His. Never let that wonder fade! Remember and be filled with a deep sense of joy and gratitude. Let thankfulness grow and overflow, and join the psalmist David in saying “I will extol the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips” (Psalm 34 verse 1).
