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Praise And Thanks
Brian Mashburn
November 25, 2012
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Thanks-Living
It is sad that it is only at this time of year that I think and speak so intentionally about the practice of gratitude. I'm glad there is a time of year for it, but this year as we practice it, let's consider making it more of a lifestyle than an event.
Paul says that the whole Gospel is precisely so that thanksgiving will overflow, and that this thanksgiving is what keeps any of us from losing heart in any circumstance (2 Corinthians 4:15). Do you ever lose heart? The problem is not your circumstances, it is that thanksgiving is missing.
He also says that the whole point of the Kingdom quality of generosity is so that thanksgiving towards God will result. Not salvation? No. Thanksgiving. (2 Corinthians 9:11)
After explaining to the Ephesians a whole litany of words and deeds and attitudes that they should not practice, leaving you to wonder what in the world you should practice in their absence, he instructs them with one word: thanksgiving. Gratitude should fill our thoughts, words, and deeds as our most defining quality as Christians.
In our ranks, there should be no "grumpy old men" or "bitter old women" or "constantly complaining kids", or "never happy teenagers" or "mid-life crises" or any unsatisfied citizen in between. The sheer magnitude of what God has done for us in Christ does not leave any room for it.
So, whatever we do, let us live thankfully (Colossians 3:17).