…in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NAS95)
Paul writes a number of admonitions here, one of which concerns thankfulness in all things. It comes after he reminds them to rejoice always and pray without ceasing. That sounds impossible, but for Paul, it describes his reality. He lived Kingdom, God’s presence and love everywhere. Paul’s not speaking of a way to be more pious or religious, he’s talking about recognizing and acknowledging God because He’s here. Paul knew he was not alone. Jesus made the Father accessible and Paul lived it — God’s presence, with-ness, fully real, felt and accessible. This provided the reason for expressing thanks.
At the heart of gratitude lies a humility that sees God giving good gifts, even when they seem contrary to our wishes. The backdrop of the writing of this letter and these words by Paul calls forth an amazing story where the gospel moved quickly — so quickly that Paul felt more like an observer than a worker (Acts 17:1-9). The speed at which the news of Jesus the King and Savior spread provoked the persecution of some of the new disciples so Paul and Silas had to depart. Paul did not want to leave, but he had to. Yet the experience left its mark of gratitude in their souls. So as I read these words and reflect, I sense Paul inviting me into the experiential reality of God’s presence, through expressing thanks in all things, no matter what my circumstance. Giving thanks makes God’s presence with me all the more real.
For Reflection:
“I will give thanks to You, O Lord my God, with all my heart, And will glorify Your name forever.” (Psalms 86:12 NAS95)
- How has expressing gratitude to God influenced your experience of life in the past?
- What do you think giving thanks to God in all things could do in your life as a regular practice?
