God's Will 101

"...in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

1 Thessalonians 5:18

If you ever struggle with knowing God's will for a certain situation in your life-this verse is the place to start. We all love to be appreciated by someone, and I believe that God is no different. The key is thankfulness.

God has opened my eyes to the concept of thankfulness through this verse. God's message wasn't to a group of complaining, thankless people, but rather to a group being commended by Paul for their dedication to Christ and working together to spread the gospel. Even when we're living in obedience and moving confidently where He has called us, giving thanks is key. Notice that the words are "give thanks", not "say thanks". Thanks can often be said and not meant. The Greek word here is "eucharisteo" which means "expressing thanks". To express means to show, manifest or represent.

To me, this goes on beyond the simple daily prayers of "thank you for this food", "thank you for this day", "thank you for my job". It is what I do with the days- the provisions-the gifts-the people, etc. that He have given to me. Often it may be that all you or I can do is fall on our knees and cry out "thank you" to Him for a specific something He's done. However, I believe God is speaking to us about "everything" here- the general everyday everything we all experience. Do we give (express) thanks- or do we express complaints? I am learning that God wants me to express my gratitude to Him in all that I do- not merely pay lip service to Him. I've learned that a thankful spirit moves God's heart. It also moves my heart- toward His.

Remember the Israelites? While Moses-guided by God-led them out of a land of bondage and toward a land of feedom, all they could muster were complaining, murmuring attitudes. They flunked the test on giving thanks- big time! God was displeased, as they grumbled even over the food He had provided. (Ever have that happen to you at dinner time?) The Israelites' thankless spirits kept them wandering around aimlessly until they died. They were blinded by their own discontent and never saw the good things God had planned for them. I never want to become a thankless wanderer. (I wonder what might have been different if the least they would've done was say "thank you for this bread"?)

Unsure of God's good plan for you? The key to knowing God's will for your life is in your expression of thanks. It only has to be turned.

"come before His presence with thanksgiving" Psalm 95:2

"enter His gates with thanksgiving" Psalm 100:4

Makin' a List

"Remember His wonders which He has done" Psalm 105:5

Enjoy reading Psalm 105

It's that time of year...grocery, shopping and "to do" lists seem extra long when the holiday season comes around. I don't know about you, but I have to make a list (and check it twice) of everything I need to got done- or something will be forgotten.

The author of Psalm 105 tells his audience to remember God's wonderful works- and he helps them to do so by listing several wonders God had preformed. I believe this is one of the most important faith building exercises we can do- list the awesome things God has done in our lives- and speak of them and be glad (verses 2-3). When I come to an obstacle in life, I remind myself of all the other obstacles that God has helped me leap over. Although the obstacle may at first stop me dead in my tracks, remembering what God has done gives me a vision of getting over the obstacle. What I've learned from my personal lists of God's wonders is this: God has never given me a reason not to trust Him.

In doing a little study of the Psalm(s) I've discovered it is probable that this Psalm isn't one of David's. It is believed it was most likely written after his time, as an encouragement to the Jews who had returned to their homeland after 70 years of exile. They faced much opposition as they worked to rebuild their city and it was a difficult time for them. The Psalmist's list of God's wonderful works was to remind the people that God had done and would continue to do wonders in their lives. (And He did. Those wonderful workings are in the books of Ezra, Nehemiah and Esther).

If this year has been difficult for you, try listing all of the wonderful things God has done in your life. Go over it twice- or a few times- if you need. How has God made a way for you? What has He provided? What has He spoken to you? Ask God to bring to remembrance all of those things you may have forgotten- or overlooked. Begin to thank Him for what He has done and for all that He will do in your life.

I am positive that the faith you have in Him and the knowledge of the love He has for you will be renewed and strengthened. He will help you leap over whatever obstacles you may be facing.

"He brought forth His people with joy" Psalm 105:43