...giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,
Ephesians 5:20 [ESV]
We now continue to the second piece of the atmosphere which supports the filling of the Holy Spirit. There is a gratitude that comes with focusing on who God is, what He has done and how He has graced us. So not only is praise and rejoicing present, but also a spirit that appreciates what God has done in giving us the honor of being his children.
Being here in Mexico this week was not only a reminder of the physical and material gratitude I should have but also for the gracious knowledge and understanding He has given me in handling some delicate situations that have come up while we have been here.
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:17 [ESV]
We live under God’s rule, and He works everything out for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). This doesn’t mean everything that happens is good, but that over time, things WILL turn out exactly how God is intending for those of us who love and follow Him. Even tough times can be appreciated. We trust and are aware of our gratitude; truly understanding grace and how we access the Spirit through the cross makes us thankful, as does the honor of walking with and knowing God.
Those who realize how much God has done, even though we didn’t deserve it, develop gratitude. The size of our forgiven debt makes us grateful. There’s also a lot to be thankful for in the world God created. Even as we stand in front of these houses of people in poverty, we look out on the beautiful hillsides of God’s creation.
Application:
My thanks go to God the Father through Jesus Christ for His provision. Calling God “Father” demonstrates a close relationship, which is central to my faith. I am grateful to be part of God’s family, which involves the Father’s plan, the Son’s sacrifice, and the Spirit’s help, as this passage shows.
Today’s Psalm:
By this I know that you delight in me:
Psalms 41:11-12 [ESV]
my enemy will not shout in triumph over me.
But you have upheld me because of my integrity,
and set me in your presence forever.