I hope you’re enjoying the occasion of Thanksgiving in your corner of the world. Even though I’m an Aussie girl, and Thanksgiving isn’t a big part of my culture, it’s always a good time to be thankful!
Paul wrote these words to the Colossian church while he was in prison for sharing the gospel of Jesus…
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” (Colossians 3:15-17)
Paul had every reason to be bitter, spending at least two years under house arrest. But he took the opportunity to remind his family in Christ to be thankful, as he was.
Does the peace of Christ rule in your heart? Does this flow into your relationships with others? Allowing the message of Christ to dwell in us richly means taking time to savour God’s word, engaging in prayer and praise, and sharing the message of Christ with others in our words and actions.
Paul also refers to thankfulness or gratitude three times in these verses. In all we do, let’s give thanks. In all our struggles, give thanks. Let’s allow gratitude to rise up in our hearts, knowing that, though our circumstances are far from perfect, we have a merciful God who gives us more than we need, in every season.
It's a God thing... 
This is so true–first comes gratitude, then contentment and Joy. love to you and your family, caddo
So true Caddo – contentment isn’t based on what we have or how well things are going. Though it can be harder to find during tough times hey! Praying contentment, gratitude and peace for you and your family and friends today. Blessings,
Ali
Thanks, Ali–although I’m alone, I am more than content, very blessed. God’s Presence permeates my rooms.
I’m so glad. May His presence continue to provide ample blessings this season.
Thanks–all good things to you as well.
Thank you for this post. Many people need this today, especially me. Thanks again and if you are celebrating a holiday tomorrow have a happy one!
Praying you’ll know His presence fully today and enjoy the blessings He brings in the midst of hardship. Thanks for dropping by,
Ali
Good post! Hope all is well Down Under!
Thanks Timothy!
Hi Ali.
Being thankful should be a part of our lives. We have so much to be thankful for. He has done great things and continues to do great things for us. A great post Ali. Have a great weekend…..
Rolain
Thanks Rolain, so true. May it become a daily practice for all of us as we continue to recognize his grace. Thanks Rolain, you too.
Thank you for sharing this, I have been taught that without being thankful, I cannot be happy. My relationship with God rests on this truth.I hope you have a blessed Thanksgiving!
That’s a great truth djah. May we continue to recognize the blessings of He who gives us all things. Thanks for dropping by.
I had a wonderful Thanksgiving! I appreciate this reminder about thankfulness. I think Paul is quite inspirational, as he was thankful even when his circumstances were less than pleasant.
I’m so glad. God is good. He is – it’s amazing how God used him to bless others while behind those prison bars.
Have a wonderful rest-of-the-season Janna.
I loved that it is thankful people who are happy! What a great post and way to encourage us to be thankful always! God bless you and yours with grateful hearts full of Him.
Thanks Debbie, and so true! I can’t say I’m one of those always-thankful people… But by God’s grace I try and see the upside to everything, and His hand in all circumstances. Blessings,
Ali