Be full of thanks (1)
There is oftentimes a distinction between who we are in Christ and what we see in the world. At times, these two perspectives may not align perfectly. However, as believers, we must cultivate an attitude of gratitude and count our blessings. Our blessings go beyond the physical, encompassing eternal life, righteousness, salvation, and more— things that neither age nor fade with time. These are the reasons why we give thanks.
Ephesians 1:3 (NIV)
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.”
In Psalm 103:1-15, David encourages us to bless the Lord and remember everything He has done for us. It is a thing of great joy to us as believers that we are forever found in Christ, united with Him, and able to boldly proclaim that we will never taste death because our destiny is eternally secure in Him.
Furthermore, even in our natural lives, we should count the blessings of good health, a family, a comfortable home, and a supportive spouse (for the married). Complaining is not a distinguishing characteristic; anyone can complain. True thanksgiving is what sets us apart as believers. Don’t wait for moments of inconvenience before you appreciate the seemingly little things in life. Avoid becoming that Christian who fails to see any reason to give thanks. Recognize that thanksgiving is a supernatural activity and an essential aspect of a Spirit-filled attitude. See Paul’s instruction in 1 Corinthians 14
1 Corinthians 14:14-15 (NIV)
“For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful. So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my understanding; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my understanding.”
Paul refers to singing in tongues as an act of thanksgiving. It signifies the consciousness we have of God’s work in and through us. He goes further to once again instruct the Church in Thessalonica In 1 Thessalonians 5:18;
“Give thanks in all circumstances, it is God’s will for you in Christ”.
Do not be a Christian whose default is complaints. Instead, be cheerful and joyful at all times. Being full of the Spirit and full of complaints cannot coexist– murmur is a work of the flesh.
Daily Bible Reading Plan:
Bible Reading – 1 Kings 5-7
TEACHING OF THE DAY
Ministering and Receiving Miracles (1)