In Everything?

V22 n40

In this country, we have just passed a time of year that is supposed to be a time of thanksgiving. Yet, few have any real idea of that which they should be thankful for. Even among Christian circles or groups, few are mindful to give thanks to God for the gift of salvation each and every moment, of each and every day; not just at certain times of the year. What is it that you are thankful for?

1 Thessalonians 5:16-2, 16 Rejoice evermore. 17 Pray without ceasing. 18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 19 Quench not the Spirit. 20 Despise not prophesyings. 21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. 22 Abstain from all appearance of evil. KJV

One needs to be mindful of the fact that we have been blessed with all spiritual blessings in Christ Jesus. When one can remember to be mindful of this, and allow it to become a very part of their life and being, it will cause one to stay in a closer or more sincere attitude of gratitude. Learning to appreciate “the gift” (Eph 4:7, Rom 6:23, Eph 2:8) that God has given to us, and made available to all of mankind. (Titus 2:11, Rom 10:18, Col 1:23, 1Tim 2:4). (How can one add to that which God has already done?).

In everything, give thanks! It does not say for everything to thank God (for only good gifts come down from Him), but rather we are to thank Him in everything. One has to know that His Son did overcome the world, so abiding in Him, one does have the victory. In and through everything, we know (or should know) that He has established the way (setting the example that we too should follow), by instruction of the truth (His Word is truth), that will lead and guide one to eternal life, if they hearken diligently to that which Father has spoken. (This can not be done once or twice a year, but has to be continued in each and every day).

Philippians 4:6-7, 6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. KJV

In everything, by and through prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving! Many pray (or think that they pray), but, have they prayed in accordance with His instructions? Some pray and tell God that which they want. Some pray and tell God that which they think that they need. And some, will ask Father for that which He knows that they have need of. Yet, how many are thankful as soon as they pray to God, and ask Him for that which they do have need of? Most will not be thankful until they “see” the results of that which they have sought God for. Is this praying according to His Word? Is this really having faith, and believing that which His Word clearly says to us?

Do you really believe that the Lord has heard and answered your prayers? Or, perhaps you are like most, that you hope that He has heard and answered your prayers? How many know, that He has heard and answered their prayer? Without faith, it is impossible to please Him!

Then, we have those that are thanking God for those things that He did not do. They thank God for things that He did not send. I heard a preacher say this past week, that God sends persecution on the Church to purify them. That causes me to wonder what kind of Bible that they have. My Bible tells me that Jesus Christ came that we might have life, and have it more abundantly; and it is the thief, the father of lies, that comes to steal, kill and destroy. Have they not read, that God cannot be tempted, and neither does He tempt any man? He sent His Word to heal us, and to deliver us from our destruction’s; not to inflict pain and suffering on His children.

In prayer, one has to know who it is that they are talking with. They have to know the rules and guidelines that cover prayer. Going to Father, and asking Him to supply that which He knows that we have need of, in order to faithfully continue serving Him. And then thanking Him immediately, as soon as we ask, knowing that He has heard and answered!

John 14:13-14, 13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. KJV

We are to ask Father, in His name, for those things that we have need of. Yet, there are few that know His name, to be able to ask according to the guidelines that Father has set forth. There is no other name given under heaven among men, whereby we might be saved, healed, delivered, and made whole. It is essential that one has God’s understanding of His plan of salvation. It has to be based in and on the facts of His Word, not myths, traditions, or whatever other things man has tried to institute. Do you know who His Son is?

If one knows His name, they will not be seeking their wants; but will rather be desiring those things that will enable them to better serve Him, to do those things that He asks of them. Self-conceit or selfishness will not enter into the picture. One should be seeking first the kingdom of God (hint; His kingdom is not of this world), and His righteousness (Christ Jesus), and then the blessings of God will come upon you, and overtake you. He confirms His Word (not the ministers or the ministry) with signs following.

What are you thankful for this day? Who are you thanking for what has happened to you this day? As Paul told us, that you may know Him, and the power of His resurrection! Then and only then, will you be able to thank Him in everything, and not for everything!

That you may know Him,
In the service of Jesus Christ.

Larry Gazelka

www.builtanewministries.org