Attitude of Gratitude

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

“With an attitude of gratitude, I will enter in.”  I (David) remember singing this lyric as a kid from a song a lady in our church wrote.  This has stuck with me throughout life and has been a painful reminder at times.  We all have times in our lives when giving thanks is not at the front of our minds nor does it feel appropriate for the situation.  However, we see in 1 Thessalonians that it is God’s will for us that we give thanks in ALL circumstances. What?!? How?!?

These are questions I’m sure we have all asked.  When I think about doing something that I do not feel like doing, but know that I should Jesus comes to mind.  We see Jesus do all three of these things in the hours leading up to his death—a pretty awful circumstance. Jesus rejoiced with the disciples at the last supper and endured the cross because he knew the joy that was coming.  He prayed to the Father in the midst of deep suffering in the garden and on the cross. In the garden, Jesus asked the Father if the cup (death on the cross) could pass from him, knowing the suffering that would come to him. Yet, Jesus chose to obey the Father at all costs regardless of his feelings. He thanked the Father for his love and faithfulness at the meal and interceded for others even from the cross.  Does this mean that God did not care about how Jesus felt? No, he cared deeply about how Jesus felt, after all, Jesus was his son whom he loved. This adds to the power and beauty of what Jesus had to do. God knew what had to be done to save those whom he loves. So for love and the joy set before Jesus he endured the cross.

In the same way, we are commanded to give thanks in all circumstances.  For love and the joy that is set before us.  We get to know the living, eternal God.  I mean, really know him.  For those who follow Jesus as Lord and Savior, we get to live with him forever!  When I think about this reality I must admit, though important, my feelings must bow to what God wants and give thanks.

Much Love,

David