September 16 Devotion - In everything give thanks

In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

ارْفَعُوا الشُّكْرَ فِي كُلِّ حَالٍ: فَهَذِهِ هِيَ مَشِيئَةُ اللهِ لَكُمْ فِي الْمَسِيحِ يَسُوعَ.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

In the middle of a severe problem or trial I find it extremely difficult to give thanks to God and to praise Him. We are taught however that it is God’s will in Christ Jesus that we give thanks in everything.

In order to be able to do that we need to remember that:

1. God is greater than our heart, and knows all things. 1 John 3:20

2. God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1

He has allowed this problem or trial for a reason and we know that all things work together for good to those who love God. Romans 8:28

When we have an attitude of gratitude even through hardships we are telling God that we trust Him and even though we do not understand, we believe that according to God’s ways and thinking, going through these hardships will eventually be for our benefit. We praise Him for His purpose.

I invite you to repeat the following prayer for yourself:

Abba Father, thank You for Your abundant blessings and love. Father God, I praise You and glorify You.

Thank You Lord that You have a divine plan for me and that whatever I go through is Your will through Christ Jesus, and has a good ending. Abba, I pray that out of Your glorious riches You strengthen me with power through Your Spirit in my inner being so that I can always thank you even through the most difficult of times. In Jesus’ name I pray. To Him be the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.

Jesus loves you
In Him,
Wagdi Henein