Giving Thanks is Gods Will

Judas betrayed Jesus. Peter denied Jesus. And as bad as those two experiences were, Saul (also known as Paul), went even further and tried to stamp out Jesus. He secured letters to gather up Jesus’ followers and have them put in prison. And yet, Paul would go on to write, 1 Th 5:18 “…in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.” NASB

How does this happen? How does a person go from one attitude to a complete change of attitude? …simple, an attitude adjustment, a change of mind. Judas may have had his doubts, and certainly regrets, for in Matthew 27 we read, “…he threw the pieces of silver into the temple sanctuary and departed; and he went away and hanged himself.” NASB. However, he never had that change of mind, he never repented. Like many, he was sorry he was caught, but not enough to turn to Jesus and seek forgiveness.

Paul and Peter both experienced repentance and would go on to be completely effective in ministry as Light-bearers in a very dark world. However, both of them had to be thoroughly humbled. Peter had removed himself from Jesus and His followers by his very denial. Paul was blinded and confronted. Both were left with attitudes of humility and gratitude.

We are no different from any of the above. We all have the opportunity to be united with Jesus and His way, or to go it alone. Choosing to live with God often reveals that great lifetime question, “well, what is God’s will for me?” The answer was given to you at the beginning, 1 Th 5:18 “…in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.” NASB. God wants you to be thankful. To recognize that all good things come from Him. He wants you to acknowledge Him in all things. That is, He wants to be in a constant state of fellowship with Him. He created you so that He could be part of your everyday life. Where do you start? It all begins with an attitude of thanksgiving, in all things, everyday, and it can start right now. It is up to you.