In everything, give thanks, for this is the will of God.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16
This is the time of year when we become more aware of being thankful. Our national holiday sets aside a time when both individually and as a nation, we focus on our blessings. Scripture even reminds us – “In all things, give thanks.” This is not difficult when life is going well.
But what about times of loss, of health threats, of disruption and danger, when we - or even worse, our loved ones - are at risk? How can one honestly be thankful?
The answer lies in the realization that the term “thankfulness” has suffered the same fate as “joy.” Just as joy is confused with happiness, so thankfulness has become entangled with appreciation. We appreciate the positive experiences and opportunities that come our way but thankfulness is much more. It is the ability to see the end and understand the total picture, to look in the nooks and crannies of experiences and see the hand of God – to see opportunity in all things.
The book of Daniel tells a familiar story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. During the Babylonian captivity, these three men had gained a position of honor, thanks to the standing of Daniel in the kingdom. However, things changed when King Nebuchadnezzar created a huge image of gold and demanded everyone bow down and worship it. Those who refused would be burned alive in a fiery furnace so hot that those who stood near it caught fire. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego refused to bow down. Offered a second chance to obey, they replied to the king, “If you throw us in the fire, the God we serve can rescue us from your roaring furnace and anything else you might cook up, O King. But even if He doesn’t, it wouldn’t make a bit of difference.” (Daniel 3: 17-18, The Message)
This is living in a mindset of thankfulness. It is understanding the big picture and accepting our role in it, the wholeness that comes from, not just the realization, but the acceptance of God’s purpose. Thankfulness is not circumstantial but a preconceived understanding that “the God Who makes everything holy and whole will make us holy and whole, put us together – spirit, soul, and body.” It is knowing the One who called us is completely dependable. (I Thessalonians 5:16-17)
When we realize, despite what may happen on a daily basis, that God is in control, when we live with the outlook of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego and can say with assurance "it doesn't matter what happens – our God is Omnipotent,” then we understand what it is to be in a mindset of thanksgiving. And we can respond with praise.
You are true to Your name and You lead me along the right paths. I may walk though valleys as dark as death, but I won’t be afraid. You are with me, and Your shepherd’s rod makes me feel safe. Psalm 23:3-4 CEV