Be Thankful

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe…(Hebrews 12:28 NIV)

Be Thankful for All Things

Since we are receiving a kingdom that never ends, we can rejoice and give thanks in all things, which is pleasing to God. Paul says it more graciously in Philippians 4:6. But the command, not a suggestion, still stands. When we accept God’s sovereignty, we can accept all things from His hand as His provision for us in preparation for His kingdom. Thereby, we can give thanks for all things, even the most difficult trials we go through in this life. We may not understand the trial and it may hurt too much to thank Him for it, but we can be thankful knowing He is there and He will work it out for His glory and our good.

In a simple way, I tried to practice this concept every day throughout the month of November. Here are a few things I discovered:

• Criticism points to my character flaws, which God wants to correct
• Stormy weather slows me down and frees time to spend at the Master’s feet
• Fellow believers sharpen, stretch, and strengthen my faith and encourage me to nurture my relationship with the Father and the Son
• When problems assail, God’s love prevails
• Imaginations are a gift from God
• A stiff neck serves as a reminder to lift my head in praise
• The most difficult seasons in life often turn out to be our greatest blessings
• Sleep is a health restorer
• Last minute decisions can lead to personal discoveries
• Alone time can foster creative productivity, especially when the Internet is unavailable
• God provides a way when I am willing to step out of my comfort zone
• Learning curves prove that I am still teachable
• Frustration shows me how much more of Jesus I need every minute and how willing and able He is to meet my needs
• A broken washing machine reminded me of my helplessness in many areas. I had to call a repairman and rely on his knowledge and recommendations. Similarly, I call on God for help and trust Him to work everything out for my good and His glory
• Differences color my world like autumn leaves—bright and beautiful
• Delays are silent blessings from God. With delays, God protects me from disasters; He keeps me from doing unnecessary things that would cause anxiety; He opens doors I would’ve missed otherwise
• God uses my forgetfulness to keep me humble and mindful of His omniscience…not to mention my undeniable dependence on Him.

How about you? What are some of your blessings in disguise?

See you in a twinkling,

Brenda K. Hendricks