Getting Into the Meat of the Word: Giving Thanks
“Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (I Thess. 5:18).
Whether in times of plenty or times of famine, it is good for us to give thanks to the Lord! These tips can help your Sunday School “give thanks in all circumstances.”
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Sing songs of praise. Verbally expressing God’s worthiness reminds us that God is bigger than our problems. Recognizing his goodness opens our hearts to joy. (Psalm 28:7)
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Remember God’s provision. We can think about the good things God has done in our lives. It’s easy to get caught up in complaining—remember how the Israelites struggled with discontentment in spite of God’s miracles. Thinking about how God has helped us in the past can help us feel grateful for his presence with us in the present, even when circumstances look grim. (Psalm 107:31)
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Give to others. There’s nothing like reaching out to the less fortunate to remind us how blessed we are. God blesses us so we can be a blessing to others! Giving of ourselves through our finances or service makes way for more of God’s blessing in our own lives. (Acts 20:35)
- Disciple someone. Investing spiritually in others pleases God and helps us develop a selfless attitude, taking our minds off our own problems and putting the spotlight on the needs of others. It’s also a tangible reminder of how far God has brought each of us spiritually—a great reason for giving thanks! (Romans 15:14)
Stefanie Reubell is Content Manager of the Discipleship Ideas/Sunday School websites and has taught in public and Sunday School classrooms. Contact DI@gph.org.
