“Always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father” (Eph. 5:20).
What is an ever present characteristic of a follower of Christ? The answer is an attitude of gratitude. In Romans 1:21 Paul indicates that a characteristic of the unbeliever is—“For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks.” When one comprehends the greatness and the goodness of God, gratitude will be the natural response.
Paul practices what he preaches. As you read his letters you will find him giving thanks for afflictions and persecutions (2 Cor. 9:18ff., and 12:5ff). You may be wondering how someone can give thanks for such painful events. The answer is found in passages such as Romans 8:28. Paul was convinced that God was at work in everything for those who love Him and are the called. From our earthly vantage point we may sometimes wonder how God is at work in difficult circumstances and dark days. The answer is that God works in and through every circumstance to conform us to the image of His Son.
It is therefore appropriate that our thanks be directed at God who has allowed us to address Him as Father through Jesus Christ our Lord. Is your life characterized by gratitude? Do you sometimes lose sight of God’s ultimate purpose to make you more like Jesus?
Prayer: Father teach me patience and gratitude as you work through every event of my life. Amen