Tag: give thanks in all circumstances
Week 16–Day 1–“Thankful–Not Critical”
Scripture reading for April 13: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-18 “We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
When dealing with accidents, illness, addictions, and hurting people, it is sometimes hard to maintain a good attitude. One of the keys to staying positive in God’s Word is choosing to be thankful instead of critical. Paul was writing to those in the church and writing this letter to appeal to them to keep a godly attitude in the midst of persecution and mistreatment.
We notice that he appealed to the believers as ‘brothers’ and gently suggested the proper course of attitude and action that would maintain peace among them. The first issue in this passage was the respect of those in leadership. Their jobs are stressful, in that they must see a big picture and guide those under them, sometimes making corrections. Giving honor to them and respect instead of criticism helps everyone. Other areas he addressed were idleness and revenge. When we don’t do our jobs, everyone suffers and others have to do double duty. When we repay evil for evil, that never promotes unity and peace.
Instead of avoiding the wrong behavior, it’s best to be proactive. Doing good to all with continual rejoicing keeps a peaceful environment. Prayer for others instead of criticism is wonderful. And a thankful heart in all circumstances is the will of God for us who abide in Christ Jesus.
Prayer: Father God, I ask for forgiveness for being critical and negative instead of thankful and rejoicing. Fill me today with Your Spirit and produce good fruit and works in my soul. May my attitude and actions bless those I work with and those we serve. Amen.