”Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:18, NIV

We are commanded to give thanks in all circumstances It is not just when we receive blessings and favors when things go the way we planned them, when we are healthy, or when there is little to no conflict or concerns. We are to give thanks in all circumstances, not only in some but in all, even if that means being sick, weak, and being under unfavorable circumstances or experiences. Why? Because there is always something that we could be grateful for.

I remember when I was starting to apply for a job, I had so many rejections. I cannot even count how many résumés I have printed and how many companies I have had interviews with. I was even thinking negatively that I would end up jobless. I found it hard to thank God during those times but I trusted His ways and with constant prayers; He opened the opportunity for me to work at my hometown in Los Banos, Laguna, with a position that is related to my course. Not only that, I am blessed to work with intelligent superiors and friendly officemates. 

Why should we be thankful in any situation?

Jesus does it. Remember when Jesus thanked God for the loaves of bread and two fishes in Matthew 15? Jesus also thanked God for hearing him in John 11 for raising Lazarus from death. These difficult situations like death and lack of food didn’t stop him from thanking and praising God.

It pleases the Lord. There are numerous verses about giving thanks to God, and here are some of them:

• Colossians 3:17 “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”

• Ephesians 5:20  “…giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ…”

• Philippians 4:6  “Be anxious for nothing. but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God…”.

In Psalms, you may find even more., a Actually, if you find it hard to thank God at times, just open the book of Psalms and read a chapter to help you express your gratitude.

It gives us a positive outlook on life as it gives us contentment from the frustrations and negativity that we are facing.  

How to be thankful in every situation?

A genuine and thankful heart is focused on the Blesser and not the blessing. Many of us enjoy the blessing but forget the One who gives the blessing. If we focus on the Lord, our great Blesser, and the blessing Himself, we will shift our focus from the worldly things to the things that matter and last. You will realize that you already have everything when you get to know God. John 6:26-29 says,

“Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, you want to be with me because I fed you, not because you understood the miraculous signs. But don’t be so concerned about perishable things like food. Spend your energy seeking the eternal life that the Son of Man can give you. For God, the Father has given me the seal of his approval.” They replied, “We want to perform God’s work, too. What should we do?” Jesus told them, “This is the only work God wants from you: Believe in the one he has sent.” 

Next, focusing on the positive things in life and looking out for the good in every situation will lead us to be grateful and thankful. Yes, there are unlovable people that we encounter in our lives, bad situations that we experience, but let’s ask ourselves: Is God teaching me something? Is God testing my faith? What God wants me to learn about Him and His people? How can I serve and love Him and His people better?

Surely, we had our ups and downs last 2021but it shouldn’t stop us from seeing the good and perceiving God’s work in every situation. May we never forget to pray unceasingly, not only for ourselves but for other people as well. Lastly, Romans 8:28 says, “All things work together for the good of those who love the Lord.” This verse gives us an assurance that whatever situations we are facing right now, God is always in control. He is sovereign. And, whatever and wherever we are right now, one is certain: This is God’s will for us.

A blessed and grace-filled 2022 for everyone!