Sacrifice of Thanksgiving
A sacrifice costs us something.
When times are good, when the Lord says “yes” to our prayers, thanksgiving is easy. But when times are bad or the Lord says “no,” it costs us to give Him thanks. Yet we are commanded to give thanks in everything, during good times or bad.
In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving and pay your vows to the Most High. (Psalm 50:14)
Let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name. And do not neglect doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. (Hebrews 13:15–16)
There are rewards!
He who offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving honors Me; and to him who orders his way aright I shall show the salvation of God. (Psalm 50:23)
But how?
Understand. Giving thanks to God is a commandment.
Decide. Resolve to give Him thanks.
Be aware. It is easy to give Him thanks when things are good. Be conscious of your determination to thank when times aren’t good or when you find yourself grumbling or bitter.
Practice. As you, over and over, give Him thanks, you build a godly habit.
Press on!
