I WILL GIVE THANKS
Oluwamuyiwa Okuseinde
“To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee forever” (Psalms 30:12).
In the last three weeks, our focus has been on thanksgiving. As we wrap up this gratitude challenge, it is necessary to emphasize that thanksgiving is an act of will. David’s decision was that he would give thanks to God forever. If you also decide to be thankful always, you will do so.
Of course, spontaneous thanksgiving will usually be the natural response to the experience of a miracle, victory or deliverance. But more often than not, one will only abound in thanksgiving because one will to do so. To shed more light on this matter, let us consider two New Testament Bible verses.
First, the Bible says we are to give thanks in everything (1 Thessalonians 5:18). The only way that can be possible is to will or determination to do so. Everything will not seem thank-worthy, but we can give thanks even in unfavourable circumstances when we choose to do so.
The second scripture admonishes us to give thanks for all things (Ephesians 5:20). If we take that literally, it means we are to be thankful, even for seemingly unpleasant things. Again, that can only be possible when there is a resolve in place to be thankful, irrespective of what happens.
The ultimate response to the gratitude challenge, therefore, is to determine henceforth that you will always be thankful to God for the rest of your life. Whether you’re on the mountain, in the valley or on the plain, all you will ever have to offer God is your gratitude, not murmurings, grumbling, complaining, or foolish talking and faithless prayers. Receive grace today to be thankful always.
Finally, remember that when every other form of activity is over, thanksgiving and praise will subsist in heaven where we shall give thanks to our God forever.
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FURTHER BIBLE READING: PSALMS 30:1-12.
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EXERCISES
- What new insight have you gained from the above message? Please write it down in your journal.
- What would be your prayer points and what are the steps you will take?
- If you have been blessed by this message, please share it with your friends and loved ones.
TODAY’S MESSAGE
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