And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.
Colossians  3:15  (NKJV)


Is it possible to give thanks in all the adverse circumstances of life?  It seems a bit irrational to expect a bereaved husband or wife to thank God when a loved one is lost.  Can a parent truly give thanks to God when a darling child has been struck down by a brain tumor?  Is it possible to thank Him in the midst of a financial depression with its extreme poverty and woe?  These circumstances do not naturally elicit gratitude.


The only way that we can be thankful under all circumstances is to follow.  Paul's admonition to "pray continually".  Only as the Holy Spirit enters our lives through prayer can we maintain a thankful attitude regardless of outward circumstances.


The truth in our text today is real.  It means exactly what it says.  If we claim to be Bible Christians, then we should not be selective in our response to Scripture.  Here is a gracious command to give thanks in all circumstances on a constant basis.  If we would give more expression to praise and thanksgiving and rejoice in what we do have, it would serve to increase our joy and happiness.  Paul commends gratitude as a way of life.


Being thankful is not always easy, but here are several suggestions that should help.  First, rather than tremble before the instruction, why don't we contemplate the related promises.  Think about this one:  "These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full"  (John  15:11)  And, "Ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy"  (John  16:20).  And from the Old Testament,  "The Lord hath anointed me to ... bind up the brokenhearted, ... to appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness"  (Isaiah  61:1-3).


Second, does it work?  The apostle Paul answers with a resound Yes!  Incredible?  Listen to his testimony.  "Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then am I strong"  (2 Corinthians  12:10).  Try it all day - this day.


taken from: First Things First
                      September 9
                 by: Bob Spangler