Thankful for the Good

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. (James 1:17)

Being grateful is one of the most important paths to a healthy spiritual life. If the Bible's message tells us anything, it is that there is a Power greater than ourselves always working for good, bringing life and joy and blessing to the world. When Jesus showed up, doing good to everyone, he proved once and for all that God's heart toward all people is gracious and loving.

When Jesus showed up, doing good to everyone, he proved once and for all that God's heart toward all people is gracious and loving.

Obviously, bad things sometimes happen. We all know that. The Bible is very clear about the existence of evil. James 1:13 tells us that when evil things come into our lives, no one should say that God is the one testing us. I'm pretty sure this means that we shouldn't thank God for the evil things that happen to us; God is the giver of good and perfect gifts, not the giver of evil.

But we do need to remember the good things. Even as we feel pain, life is full of beauty. Even as we grieve the family members that we're parted from, we're surrounded by people who love us. Even as we face things that will never get better in this earth, we have hope for a new heaven and a new earth. Every breath is a gift.

So we thank God in all circumstances, even when bad things are happening. Why? Because good things are coming. We may be confused that God would allow bad things that cause suffering instead of blessing, but the Biblical answer to these griefs is blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted (Matthew 5:4). We can be grateful in our suffering, because we believe that God is working to bring comfort and relief--not to bring more suffering!

The days are getting colder, but there is still warmth. Groceries are getting more expensive, but there is still food. Where people are in need, there are helpers reaching out to lend a hand. Look around you for signs of a greater Power, pouring out good things on great and small. And be thankful.

Every Sunday in our 10 a.m. worship service, we thank God for all he does, and join in his work of blessing one another. Come join us. This Sunday, November 23, at 5:30 p.m., we're having a special Thanksgiving Dinner, and all are welcome. And if you'd like a chance to learn about the Bible with a small group, come for our Sunday 9 a.m. Sunday School, or our Wednesday 6 p.m. Bible study.

--Jonathan