Colossians 4:2 “Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;”
The Bible tells us that we are to be quick to give thanks to God. “Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;” tells us that we are to watch in the spirit of Thanksgiving as we pray continually, but that is not always easy to do. In fact, when trials come into our lives, giving thanks to God is one of our biggest challenges. As we are going through the trial or testing, worry and anxiety creep into our thoughts, keeping us from being grateful.
Certainly, there were periods where giving God thanks was not at the forefront of your mind as it should have been. You knew it was important, but you did not feel like doing it in the moment. Every day that you choose not to praise and give God thanks, you are missing an opportunity to show your adoration for Him.
So when things get tough, and you do not feel like doing it, how do you do it anyway?
Well, I discovered that the Apostle Paul wrote a lot on this subject. Paul was one of the happiest men ever. Was it because he never had a problem? Not even close. Paul was persecuted, imprisoned, beaten, mocked, shipwrecked, and even killed (twice). Yet he never stopped giving thanks to God.
I. Paul kept his eyes fixed on Jesus
“While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:18
II. Paul had an understanding of God’s bigger plan for mankind
“Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.” 2 Timothy 2:4
III. Paul disciplined his thoughts toward good things
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8
IV. Paul reminded himself of ways God had already been faithful
“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” Philippians 1:6
Paul’s decision to give thanks to God always is a constant challenge to be more thankful. Especially if you consider that Paul wrote most of these while he was in prison. We are so blessed, yet how often do we forget to thank God for giving us all that has been given to us? If you are going through a trial, give thanks. Try it. It is not easy by any means, but see how it will change your life.
William Davis | Assistant Pastor
Clays Mill Baptist Church | Lexington. Kentucky
theyplife@gmail.com
