The Bible says, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. “ (1 Thessalonians 5:18). That may seem easy when life is going well. But when it doesn’t, expressing gratitude can be difficult.

It is interesting to note that this instruction to give thanks to the Lord in all things was written by Paul, the apostle whose loyalty to Christ earned him severe persecution. You may wonder how he could be grateful. The answer is that Paul knew that his riches in Christ far outweighed any evil.

Think of the blessings that he valued so much and that are available to all believers. First, we are invited to relate to the one true God. Second, the Heavenly Father loves us with an eternal, unconditional love. Third, He sent His Son to die as payment for our sins so that we could spend eternity with Him.

And the list of blessings goes on: God adopts believers as His children and seals them with His Spirit (Ephesians 4:30).

He promises to meet every need through his unlimited resources (Philippians 4:19) and provides his Word and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit to guide us.

No wonder Paul was grateful!

Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, today I come before you with a grateful heart. Lord, help me to focus on all the blessings You give me every day. When I am tempted to complain, help me to remember the death of Your Son Jesus on the cross and that because of that I have salvation and eternal life. Beloved Father, help me to remember the privilege I have to be Your daughter and what a great blessing it is to have a personal relationship with You. Lord, You are good and Your mercy endures forever. Thank you, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

1.    Psalm 100:4-5 (KJV).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Rosina N.