April 20, 2020 Be Thankful 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 NKJV
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina…Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 NKJV)
Do circumstances dictate our gratitude and our attitude? We are all susceptible to ingratitude and grumpiness, yet as “Followers of Christ,” we are clearly instructed to be positive, be prayerful and to be grateful! Consider the following thoughts about what we should be "Thankful" for, and see how we measure up… Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire ... if you did, what would there be to look forward to?
Be thankful when you don't know something ... for it gives you the opportunity to learn.
Be thankful for the difficult times ... during those times you grow.
Be thankful for your limitations ... they give you opportunities for improvement.
Be thankful for each new challenge... which will build your strength and character.
Be thankful for your mistakes ... they will teach you valuable lessons.
Be thankful when you're tired and weary ... because it means you've given your all.
It's easy to be thankful for the 'good' things ... Yet; a life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are thankful for the setbacks.
Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive ... find a way to be thankful for your troubles and they can become your blessings. - Author Unknown
In times like these when the easiest thing to do is to collapse into a pile of despair and cry, “Woe is me,” we have the choice to be grumpy or grateful! Regardless of the circumstances, as believers, we are called to walk by faith, not by sight and I for one, refuse to be shackled by the negative and I am claiming His Grace and Mercy and I am living my life so that others can see that Faith is working! It does not matter what the “Faithless” say, IT IS GOING TO BE ALRIGHT!! I encourage you to hunker down and hang on: This situation will end, but God’s love and mercy will not! Praise God! So, which one will you be; Grumpy or Grateful? Stay Strong, Stay Focused…Remember, THE BEST IS YET TO BE!