Those who will not give thanks to God and find the peace He gives, will seek their wellbeing in other things, and thus create idols that can deceive, distract, and destroy us (cf. Rom. 1.21-23). Thinking that our peace depends on circumstances favorable to us, we will whine, complain, connive, or contrive to achieve those circumstances, even if it means we rob others of their peace and withhold from them the grace God wants them to know.

So, whatever may come my way, good or bad, I equally tackle it, always giving thanks to God, Who granted me unlimited faith in Him, and Who helped me so that, ignorant as I am, I might in these final days dare to undertake this work, so holy and so wonderful.

 – Patrick, Confession, Latin, 5th century[1]

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

– Philippians 4.6, 7

…in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

 – 1 Thessalonians 5.18

We should not underestimate the power of thanksgiving. The simple gesture of giving thanks can unleash within you spiritual power for peace and contentment, and strength for being an agent of grace.

In every situation, no matter how delightful or dire, our first response should always be thanksgiving. In times of joy we give thanks to God, thus acknowledging that every good and perfect gift comes from Him, including every circumstance and moment of our lives (Jms. 1.17). We recognize that we deserve nothing of good from Him, but that He surrounds and sustains us with good things, far more than we ever fully consider. Giving thanks for God’s blessings is right and good, and firms up faith and love toward Him. We can always find something for which to give thanks to God, thus bathing our soul with peace, and fortifying our next steps with faith.

But let us also give thanks to the Lord whenever we must tackle doubt, fear, trouble, or anxiety. By giving thanks at such times, we acknowledge that God is sovereign in all things, does all things well, and works all things together for good to those who love Him. By giving thanks, we may tap into His peace in the midst of our tumult. We may not always feel thankful for the conditions of our lives, but we can always give thanks in them. Giving thanks, even when we don’t feel thankful, is an act of faith, and faith pleases the Lord, and opens the spigot of grace, bathing the soul in peace, and fitting us to minister grace to others in times of need.

Thanksgiving is the leading edge of genuine faith; it is the will of God for us always and in all things. Wherever we give thanks, growth in grace occurs.

Read More