Friday, January 28, 2005
Daily Verse: 1 Thessalonians 5:18
"In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
No doubt about it, it is a command to be thankful. Why such a command? God's commandment is meant for two purposes. To provide us in the sense we are guided to live a life meaningfully and righteously. If provides freedom from guilt, and freedom to feel good in doing the right things. It protects us from the suffering from consequences.
How to give thanks when it is tough. I suppose if it is a command, then I can 'will' myself to act in thanksgiving. I can start by thanking God that He is God of the creation, of my family, of me, of those suffering. I can start thanking that inspite of the circumstances, He is with me and He is listening to my pain, hurt or worries. I can start thanking that the circumstance had 'forced' me to turn to Him, thus drawing me to Him.
Well, it easy to say and it will not be easy to do. It is not 'natural' but 'supernatural' or spiritual. That's why it is a command.
Lord, help me always to give thanks, no matter what the circumstances are. Amen
tse horng blogged at 1:36 PM
