Ephesians 5:20
“always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to our God and Father;”
I am happy to. I have to. We are so blessed in Him. All day long He sends blessings telling us how much He loves us. He has inclined our hearts to Him. Our hearts cry out to Him, “Abba, Father”. Of course we give thanks.
The next phrase is a bit more difficult, “in all things”. Not all that happens is pleasant. However, we know He works all things for “the good”. He also has a purpose. We trust Him to work it out. It may be to share with someone. He will unfold it.
We collect so much baggage and things that slow us down. Some times God allows problems to occur that strip those things away. To make us more streamline.
A famous actor abandoned God when he was young, because he was troubled that God required praise. It’s ironic, because all of us seek to be acknowledged, particularly actors. They have yearly award ceremonies to do so.
We praise God, because He is worthy. There are endless reasons to do so. I can praise God for dogs and cats. All so loving and fun and perfect. Our health into late in life. The perfection of creation. So many things that bring us joy. A wonderful spouse and children, great jobs, customers and coworkers. Routines that fill us with satisfaction. Great siblings and friends. As we walk with Him, he fills us with joy. He provides for us in amazing ways. He gives us opportunities to share His message with others.
There are several passages in scripture that speak of praise sessions in heaven. We have a hard time with that. We won’t then. I Corinthians 13:12 says, “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” There is much we don’t get. We will then and we will overflow with praise.
Giving praise is the right thing to do. He deserves it. We build monuments to those who influenced our world in a worthy way. The name and discovery escapes me, but for centuries bull fighters have died when gored, due to infection. However, a scientist created an antidote that the world takes which prevents this. There is a statue outside of a bull ring, I believe in Spain, thanking him for his contribution. It’s right to give God credit for all the amazing things He’s done, is doing and will do.
What a privilege to praise Him. I look forward to these morning scripture entry times, as He so blessed my life and He’s filled my heart with gratitude and a yearning for Him. David said, “In the morning, O LORD, You hear my voice; at daybreak I lay my plea before You and wait in expectation”, (Psalm 5:3). Thank You for David and his model as a man after Your heart. A warrior, mans man that loves You.
Lord, thank You for the privilege of thanking You. Thank You for giving us hearts that are inclined towards You.