According to God’s Word, we are to: “Rejoice always and delight in your faith; be unceasing and persistent in prayer; in every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 AMP).

Whew! That’s a mouthful! It says these disciplines are the will of God for us in Christ Jesus!

Therefore, they must be important, but how does it all work and why? 

In today’s teaching, we will connect these ideas with their foundational roots in Paul’s writings and explore why they are absolutely vital to our growth. In fact, the process activated within us through these practices are actually key to being an authentic and healthy Christian and living a normal Christian life.

And it should be noted that the practice of thanksgiving is not only found in Paul’s letters. 

Psalms overflow with gratitude. David constantly urges his own soul to choose to be thankful in all circumstances and maintain a focus on God. We are to keep our eyes firmly upon Him, no matter what. Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and every godly person named in the Bible models gratitude to God. Throughout the Old Testament, we meet people who practice thanksgiving and people who do not. The contrast between them is striking.

Most importantly, Jesus lived a lifestyle of thanksgiving and gratitude, consistently dealing with people with love and compassion. We are to do the same and this is how! I hope this teaching helps you connect the dots and grow in Christ as it has me.