What did David Understand? Ed Bulkley

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus
                (1 Thessalonians 5:18).


Thanksgiving is ultimately a statement of faith.

It is tangible evidence that we believe in the goodness of God regardless of the circumstances of life. That's why we are urged to "give thanks to the LORD for He is good; His love endures forever" (1 Chronicles 16:34).

God is good. He doesn't want your suffering to be meaningless; he will reward the faith of the person who said, "though he slay me, yet will I hope in him (Job 13:15).

What can you thank the Lord for right now?

Your health? Or perhaps a child who has been a source of joy for years? A car that works?

Get a sheet of paper and start writing a list of things to thank God for. Do it right now. Put this heading on it: Things I thank God for.

Look around you...the miracle of good vision, good friends, family members, running water, the refrigerator, hands that work, feet, indoor plumbing, birds, trees, sunshine, snow, rain, a hot shower, good roads, a job, the ability to read, songs, a child's laughter, mountain streams, love, a roof over your head....

Thank God out loud! Tell others how good He is. David learned the joy of thanking God in the presence of others.

He wrote, "I will give you thanks in the seat of assembly; among throngs of people I will praise you" (Psalm 35:18)

Gratitude is a healing medicine. It is almost impossible to overflow with thanksgiving and to remain wounded at the same time. Make thanksgiving a habit by practicing it constantly.

-- From Only God Can Heal the Wounded Heart,
                 by Ed Bulkley