Oh give thanks to the LORD, call upon His name; Make known His deeds among the peoples. (1 Chronicles 16:8 NAS95)
David wanted to give thanks. The whole text (1 Chron. 16:8-36) really expresses gratitude to God for being God. David had experienced God’s providence very specifically. God had done much in and through him. The Northern and Southern Kingdoms of Israel now combined to make one united kingdom under David. His fame had spread and other kings desired to assist David as his allies. God had worked and placed favor upon Israel’s King. David spent his life in pursuit of God and His will, constantly inquiring of His guidance. Although David’s journey to this point had many challenging difficulties, the victories God had granted fueled his gratitude. Now in a Kingdom united David wanted everyone to share and celebrate his gratefulness to God.
David had something very specific in mind. He wanted the ark in Jerusalem so he had it brought and placed in a tent he had made for it. Even though he knew God filled the heavens and the earth, the ark symbolized the very presence of God with His people. Once the ark arrived, David called for worship, worship for the purpose of giving God thanks (1 Chron. 16:7). So he assigned Asaph and his extended family to make music that enthralled the hearts of people with the wonder of God and His blessings. David hungered for God and lived in gratitude to Him for all that He had done. Yet he seems most grateful that he had the privilege of knowing God. His story invites all to express thanks to God for all His gifts, including the gift of Himself. Happy Thanksgiving!
For Reflection:
“I will give thanks to the LORD with all my heart; I will tell of all Your wonders.” (Psalms 9:1 NAS95)
- As you reflect on God’s goodness over the past year, what are the things for which you are most grateful?
- What happens in your soul when you consider and express thankfulness for all the things God has done or given you?
