Laced With Grace – Christian Devotions

What If I am Not Thankful?

By Lori November 11, 2009 Devotion, Reflection

I Thessalonians 5:18 “..give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

Paul said he has learned to be satisfied in all circumstances. Paul said these words after being forced to leave Thessalonica because of legal action taken against him. The Jews were hostile towards him and his message. With imprisonment being threatened he found himself in a situation that looked hopeless to our physical eyes. But it was at this time Paul wrote “rejoice always”, “give thanks”, and “be satisfied”.

What Christ is saying through Paul is that we should give thanks in all things, but we don’t have to be thankful for all things. During a painful season of life you are not thankful for what you are going through, but you can give thanks. When hard times hit you are not thankful for the trials but are thankful you have Christ to walk by your side.

When you don’t feel thankful give thanks for Christ dying on the cross, give thanks that through every trial Christ will walk by your side, and give thanks that Jesus promised never to leave you or forsake you. Paul knew that no matter what he faced (beatings, shipwrecked, prison, etc..) , he was going to be satisfied because having Jesus is having it all.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for promising to never leave me nor forsake me and that I can be thankful in all circumstances because you sent your son to die on the cross for my sins. Amen

God’s Girl,

Lori

Head Administrator for Christian Women Affiliate

Find me daily:
Loris Reflections Book Reviews

6 thoughts on “What If I am Not Thankful?”

  2. Dianne

    Lovely post, Lori. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 is one of my favorite portions of scripture. There’s so much contained in those three verses that show us how to live.

    Thanks for sharing!
    Dianne

  3. bp

    It’s true that we can look to Jesus and His sacrifice and give thanks no matter what else is going on in life.

    have a great day. Thanks,
    Bethany

  5. eph2810

    Amen to that , Lori. It is so true that when we keep our focus on Christ, we can be thankful even through the hard times and trials.

    Thank you for your encouragement…