Ephesians 2:12-13, "Remember that at that time you were separate from Christ ... without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus, you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ."
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
When life is going well and firing on all cylinders, we can easily look around and find things to be thankful for. But what happens when life hits a road bump, we're gripped by fear, or we're simply unable to commit to making much-needed changes? If we have a personal relationship with Jesus, the answer is simple, just not always simple to apply: Remember what was! Think about who we were before Jesus entered our lives.
Like salvation, thankfulness is a decision. We either choose to live with an attitude of gratitude or not. So, what does that look like? Paul gives us the answer in today's reading:
Rejoice always: Happiness comes and goes; it's conditional to circumstance, but joy is eternal. Unlike feelings, God doesn't change.
Pray continually: Although quiet time with God is important, prayer isn't restricted by a specific posture, place, or time. We simply talk with God throughout our day.
Give thanks in all circumstances: Here's an important distinction: we don't give thanks for everything - who gives thanks for a cancer diagnosis or the loss of a loved one? Instead, we give thanks in everything because God is in control! He's always present, and His promises never fail.
The great 19th-century theologian, Charles Spurgeon, said it best, "When joy and prayer get married, their firstborn child is gratitude." So, remember, you may not be quite where you want to be, but you can choose to GIVE THANKS that you're nowhere close to where you were! You've come a long way!
If you have a relationship with Christ, take a few minutes to think about where you would be today without Him in your life. Remember what was and thank Him for where you are!
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Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for rescuing me from my sin and giving me the hope of eternal life. Help me to keep that reality at the forefront of my mind so that I can live a life of true thankfulness for all You have done! In Jesus' name, Amen.