“18in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18;
“28Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe” Hebrews 12:28;
“31Yet those who hope in the Lord will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.” Isaiah 40:31
Back in early May of this year, Effie and I had the joy of attending my 40 year class reunion from Dallas Seminary. Time has really passed by quickly. So many ups and downs, highlights and lowlights. But through it all, God has been faithful, providing and protecting all along the way. It was a great time of reflecting and celebrating.
At the reunion they passed out coffee mugs to help us remember the moment. On the mug were the words, “Thankful, Grateful, & Thankful” In my heart, those words were powerful and summarized what our attitude should be over the next 40 years of living and serving the Lord (Lord willing).
In the bible, passages abound with exhortations to be thankful, grateful, & hopeful. There are way too many to mention here but if you are curious, I direct your attention to Php. 4:6; Ps. 106:1; Col. 2:7; Heb. 12:28; Mic. 7:7; & 1 Ti. 4:10 to name just a few.
A simple observation I see from these passages is that when believers in Christ develop and mature in attitudes of being thankful and grateful for what God has done for them and provided for them, they become people filled with hope. They are NOT drowning in a sea of darkness, depression, & hopelessness.
Do not wait for 20, 30, 40, 50, 70, 80, or even 90 years of life to pass before realizing God wants you to be a hope filled person. You can be a more hopeful, optimistic person, the more thankful and grateful you are. Start now and be blessed.
Lovingly,
Pstr. Arnold