Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
An attitude of gratitude puts everything and every circumstance in the proper perspective. It enables us to see the big picture and helps us to focus on God and His glory rather than on ourselves and our personal trials or triumphs. Such an attitude, openly expressed and lived-out, sends a powerful message to our family and friends: God is in control and I’m glad He is! We already know the ultimate outcome of life’s circumstances: “…in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). If we forget this promise, we begin to take God for granted, and an attitude of gratitude is impossible. We can become self-focused and lose sight of what God is accomplishing in the greater scheme of things.
Baking a cake requires using a number of ingredients, which, if eaten by themselves, are mostly distasteful: flour, raw eggs, baking powder, etc. But, if these same ingredients are carefully blended together and baked for the right period of time, you end up with a delicious dessert. God is at the “mixing bowl” of our lives. Our “flour and raw eggs” experiences, however distasteful, are the ingredients of a wonderful creation. We can give thanks in all circumstances because of our faith in God, knowing that the end result of all our experiences will be a perfect blend for our good and His glory.
Prayer Focus: Take a moment and think about a good experience or event in your life. With that memory in mind, thank God for blessing you through that experience or event. In the days ahead, continue to focus on the great things that God has done in your life and look forward to the great things that He has planned for you. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6
