Giving Tthanks - Pt 5

Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. (Romans 8:26-30 ESV).

I couldn’t resist inserting this picture today. In our part of Texas we are just coming off the coldest week of the year, so far. I certainly hope this is not a portent of the rest of the winter! While writing this series, I am struck with the difficulty cold weather presents to many creatures. Life is like that for those of us who have seen many “winters” of life. These are those times when the ambient air temperature has nothing to do with the hardship we face! The last principle that helps us with that is how we learn the principle of thanksgiving in all circumstances. One surprising aspect of thanksgiving is that it’s for all circumstances, not just one big meal a year. Paul writes, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). Giving thanks in all circumstances is especially difficult while undergoing suffering. How can we be thankful when there’s something that hurts so much? We can give thanks in the midst of suffering because it is meant to enlarge our faith, not as punishment (cf. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18), and because it is redemptive, not random. Our suffering is not punishment for our sin — because Christ has borne our punishment in our place (cf. Romans 3:25). The demands of justice have been met. And our suffering is not random — because God is sovereign over it, and through it God is conforming us in the image of his Son bringing about our good (cf. Romans 8:28-29). So, as you review all of these five principles of the last few days, think about your Thanksgiving. Don’t let it be squeezed out of your celebrations this year. Make it a priority to actively celebrate the wonderful Person and work of God on your behalf. Find the heart of God in every day. Find the purpose of God in every circumstance. Thank Him for choosing you as his child forever!