What is your definition of the word “thanks”? Webster’s Dictionary defines it as “kind or grateful thoughts; an expression of gratitude”. There are many ways that you can give thanks to someone who does something for you, such as simply saying “thank you”, giving them a gift, or writing them a note of appreciation.
But how can you show your gratitude to God, who is big, great, and mighty?
R.C. Sproul once said, “God doesn’t want us to just feel gratitude, but to show it by giving thanks to God with our lives.” So, what does this mean? It means that in addition to telling God “Thank you” for the things He has done, is doing, and will do, you should also show other people your gratitude for these things. Some ways to do this are by worshipping God with your voice of praise, testifying to others what He has done for you, and to always remember how grateful you are for the things God has done for you.
Sounds easy, right? It can be, but, as humans, we tend to get so caught up in the everyday things of life, that it is so easy to forget to say “Thank you” or show your gratitude to anyone, let alone God. And what about giving thanks during the difficult times you go through? Do you still have to be grateful for those?
Yes! Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 says that “there is a time for everything, and a season for every purpose under heaven.” Everything you experience in this life- even the difficult times - is just a steppingstone to the great purpose God has for your life. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says to “give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
For example: You lose your house in a devastating fire, along with all your belongings. How are you supposed to be thankful to God in this circumstance? Thank God that everyone got out of the house safely and uninjured. Thank God for providing you with your home and belongings, even though they are now gone. Thank God for the neighbors and community who step up to help you and your family find a new home and give you things you will need to start a new home. Then, when you are able to, volunteer to help other people who have lost their homes due to a fire. All of these will bring the glory and honor to God and show others how grateful you are to God for His providence and protection.
Continuously giving and showing your gratitude to God will deepen your relationship with Him. It will open your eyes to be able to see how deep God’s love for you is, and all the things of this world that you thought truly mattered – they won’t matter as much to you anymore.