Thanksgiving has come and gone. The leftovers are about gone in my house, and the Christmas decorations are already in place. One aspect of the holiday should not run out. Scripture makes clear the importance of gratitude in the Christian’s life. Thankfulness is a virtue that must follow the Christian throughout the year.
The Bible continues to remind its readers to “give thanks.” The thankful heart grounds believers in God’s character, allowing them to see beyond their current circumstances. In this way, thankfulness directs our attention from the darkness of the world to God, who provides us with every good and perfect gift.
The apostle Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” It is not that we give thanks for all circumstances, but in every circumstance. Christian Gratitude is not a denial of the struggles we face. Instead, it stems from the Christian’s faith in God’s goodness…