Did you know that having an attitude of gratitude in all circumstances is probably one of the most difficult things for a Christian. When things are going well it’s not too difficult to thank and praise the Lord. But when severe trials and disappointments hit us having an attitude of gratitude is often not our first choice, or for that matter, not a choice many Christians make at all.
However, while having gratitude and being thankful during difficult times may be difficult, we are commanded to do just that. (1 Thessalonians 5:18) tells us: “in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” In addition, we read: “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.” (Colossians 3:17). I have learned in my walk with the Lord that when God shows us His will in something, it is always for our good to obey it, because when we do, we will not only glorify God, but we will reap wonderful blessings and experience great joy.
One of my favorite examples, that has proven a great source of encouragement to me, on this whole area of always having an attitude of gratitude can be seen in an event in the life of the well-known eighteenth-century Puritan preacher and Bible scholar, Matthew Henry; whose Bible commentary is still considered one of the most popular of all time.
On one occasion, while living in London, Henry was robbed of his wallet. I love how the website Family Radio describes what followed: “Knowing that it was his duty to give thanks in everything, he meditated on this incident and recorded in his diary the following: ‘Let me be thankful, first, because he never robbed me before; second, because although he took my purse, he did not take my life; third, because although he took all I possessed, it was not much; and fourth, because it was I who was robbed, not I who robbed.’”1
My friends, what a wonderful perspective to have on life. I love how Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth put it: “God’s command to be thankful is not the threatening demand of a tyrant. Rather, it is the invitation of a lifetime—the opportunity to draw near to Him at any moment of the day.”2 In addition, she said: “The Scripture says that God inhabits the praises of His people (see Psalm 22:3 KJV). God lives in the place of praise. If we want to be where He is, we need to go to His address.”3 So having an attitude of gratitude allows us to enter into the very presence of our Lord!
Finally, having a thankful heart in all circumstances will lead to continuous joy and peace since this attitude is well-pleasing to Jesus. And when we please Jesus, He is certain to flood our hearts with supreme joy and a peace which surpasses all understanding!
1 From the diary of Matthew Henry | Family Radio