"Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
1 Thessalonians 5:18
When is the last time you said, "Thank You"? I mean a true, heartfelt thank you for a service done for you or a gift given or many other instances that might afford a 'thank you'. Coming away from Christmas I'm sure (or would hope) that those two words were spoken often. But when have you sent a handwritten, mail delivered thank-you note, in some way gone out of your way to use those two words?
I remember my first time to be put in charge of writing out a special note, sealing, stamping and mailing thank you cards was after my high school graduation. At the time I didn't see the importance of it but followed through with my duty and in the end came away feeling proud of the time I took to personally thank all my family and loved ones for their thought of me on my special day.
When we forget to say thanks, I don't believe it's because we're not grateful. I think we are just so busy, (no excuses) just stating a fact. The world we live in speeds by faster and faster every year and the demands that are placed on us (or that we place on ourselves) become greater than what we sometimes can deal with.
As we talk about being thankful we should look at the biblical understanding of giving thanks.
"Giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honors Me," (Ps. 50:23)
Thanksgiving is a sacrifice that takes our time and resources but that is so important. We should practice the sacrifice of thanksgiving-thanking God in all circumstances. Thanking Him for the blessings you can see in your life takes the focus off of what we do not have. No matter how much or how little you have in this world, your relationship with Him makes you immeasurably rich. And by thanking Him first will cause your heart to grow and your gratitude to be made stronger so that you can take those moments to extend a heartfelt 'thank you' to those that give to us in big and small ways.
"Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thes. 5:18)
In the new year to come I choose to be more thankful and express my thanks not only verbally but in special ways so that the recipient of my thanks really feels my heart. I want to set an intention to take time and be more creative with my thank you's. It's two simple words that holds so much feeling when you make it special. You want to join me? Let's start with thanking our Savior, the giver of all good things (Ja. 1:17)
I love you & He loves you more!
Lord, I ask that You train me in the practice of the sacrifice of thanksgiving and I understand that it begins with You. I own the gift of knowing You, my Lord and my Savior. You are my living God and constant Companion. I am rich in knowing and loving You and for that I live forever grateful. When I count my blessings I count You first and know the wealth I have in You. Thank You. In Jesus' name. Amen.
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