Give Thanks in Everything

“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”(1Thessalonians 5:18 KJV)

When reading this exhortation to the Church in Thessalonica, we are immediately struck by the words, “every thing.” Though there is much that can be said concerning this exhortation from the Lord through the apostle Paul, I would like to ponder these words for this devotional.

The question that comes to mind is, “does this mean in every situation without exception?” Or, is there some things that may be excluded from “every thing”? It is obvious that we are to God give thanks to all the “good” things that happen to us. We are told in James, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning” (James 1:17 NKJ). In all the good things, whatever they are, including regeneration (see next verse) we have received is from God, “the Father of lights.” Whether is a large inheritance, a promotion at a job, marrying the “love of your life,” having been blessed with many children (even one child), experiencing good health (including, fully recovering from a potentially fatal disease or injury), managing a successful business, a grow ministry, salvation through Jesus Christ, being born again by the Holy Spirit, eternal life, or any other “good gift” that is received from God. It is in these good things that we have received from God that we are to give thanks to God, since we know all that what we have received is not deserved, but is by His grace alone (Romans 5:8-11; John 3:27).

However, “every thing” includes the things that happen to us as a result of the fall of Adam and Eve, resulting in sin entering the world and all mankind now being under the curse of sin. Yes, as difficult as it may be we are to “give thanks” to God in Jesus Christ even for the hardships, adversities, sufferings; in troubling, turbulent times; and in tribulation. These troubling times we are to look to the Lord for strength, run to Him for deliverance, but most of all are to learn from our adversity to trust our Faithful Father and almighty through Jesus Christ our Lord. In times of hardship and adversity we are to seek from God the earnest desire to be thankful for it doesn’t naturally and our hearts are inclined to complain and blame. When things don’t go our way we rather get angry, grow embittered when it’s a lengthy trial; we become resentful or look with longing eyes at the success, prosperity and ease of the wicked or become fearful and despondent. Beloved, in the Lord developing a thankful heart is impossible for us to do; it is only by the grace of God, the creator of that is exists, keep you, protect you and provide for you in your time of need. Don’t let your heart grow fearful, hateful or disquieted; rather run to the throne of grace by faith and our precious Savior will give you all the help you need; the strength to endure your trial, the wisdom to learn from your hardship; and the courage to resist the temptation to rely on yourself or others to deliver you from your time of tribulation. Meditate on God’s word, pray and give thanks “in every thing” to God, for it is not only His will but also our reasonable service, and your heart will be transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit, who will also comfort you and give you the peace that passes all understanding to the glory of God.

May the God of all comfort and peace, our faithful Father, and Savior bless you on this Thanksgiving Day.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Rev. Richard Stetler

CEO, Reformation Gospel Ministries

Scripture to Meditate on: James 1:2-8; 1 Peter 13-8; Hebrews 12:3-11; Colossians 3:12-17; Romans 8:28-39; Philippians 4:6-9; 2 Corinthians 4:7-5:11; 1 Peter 4:12-17; Habakkuk 3:17-19; Matthew 5:10-12, 43-48; Romans 12:9-21; Matthew 16:33; 1 John 5:4-5; Revelation 21:1-8