By Adrian Rogers

BIBLE MEDITATION:

Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5:20

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT:

Ephesians 5:20, “Giving thanks always for all things” is perhaps the best Thanksgiving text in the Bible. Yet there’s no harder command to practice or obey.

When it comes to gratitude, I’ve seen four types of people:

• Folks who constantly grumble and complain. Have you met any of these? They can brighten up a room just by leaving it. That’s the lowest level.

• Folks who live lives of ingratitude. They don’t complain, but they never thank God for His obvious blessings. That’s only a little better.

• Those who thank God for obvious blessings. When something good happens, they’re grateful. That’s better.

• At the highest level are those who are grateful for all things at all times. That is the secret of a happy and productive life.

No matter what is happening, God is like a mighty ocean. He has eternal purposes we cannot see. A wave may break here and subside there, but God is moving history toward His purpose. Therefore, one of the greatest acts of faith you can ever perform is simply to say, “O God, no matter what, I will praise you.” When you get to that place where you’re grateful for all things at all times, then you have learned the secret of joy.

ACTION POINT:

Go before the Lord and think about the circumstances you’re facing. On the basis of our scripture today, thank Him for each one, knowing He is at work to weave all things—even the hardest things—together for your good.

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