IN EVERYTHING GIVE THANKS

          Many go to great lengths to discover God’s will:  what college ought we attend?; what occupation shall we pursue?; who should we marry?; and where should we live?.  It is admirable that we would seek God’s guidance and blessings in all of these important pursuits of life.  Yet it would be quite tragic if we sought to discover answers to these questions while overlooking God’s clear and simple map for a life that is pleasing to Him.

Paul writes in 1Thess.5:16-18 - - rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; FOR THIS IS GOD’S WILL FOR YOU.  These words are not only inspired and inspiring, but also very precise and profound.  This will of God can be done no matter where we live, in whatever country, state, county or city.  It applies to every occupation and works for skilled tradesmen, college graduates, and any and every job.  We can do this will of God whether we are married or single.  This Biblical charge is a strand of three cords that can provide great strength throughout  all of our days. 

          Are we able to give thanks in every circumstance?  Or, as Paul says in Eph.5:20, to give thanks for all things.  Paul was a prisoner when he  penned these words to the church at Ephesus (Eph.4:1).  While imprisoned in Philippi, Paul & Silas were found singing hymns of praise (Acts 16:25).

The apostles were incarcerated, beaten and scolded by the Jewish Council, but they went on their way rejoicing that they were considered worthy to suffer for His name (Acts 5:41).   Paul states in Rom.8:28, that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God.  Consider the story of Joseph.  His brothers sold him into slavery, yet Joseph later came to realize that although they meant it for evil, God meant it for good (Gen.50:20).  Are we able to see a silver lining in every cloud?  It is a given that we will have trouble in this life (Job 14:1), but the question looms large, HOW WILL WE RESPOND?  We might find ourselves jobless.  We might long to be married.  We might be married, yet suffering heartaches.

We might be stricken with a grave illness.  We might be forced to say goodbye to a loved one who has died.  Will we wallow in self pity?  Will we withdraw from life?  We will spend our days angry with others and perhaps even with God?  Or will we learn to give thanks in every circumstance? 

                                                                                                Terry Siverd / Cortland Church Of Christ