Uncomfortable S2 - Day 33

The Bible encourages believers to give thanks for many blessings and aspects of life that remain relevant and meaningful today. While our time's specific circumstances and challenges may differ from those in biblical times, the core principles of gratitude remain constant. Here are some things the Bible prompts us to give thanks for today:

• Salvation through Christ: The central message of the Bible is salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. We are urged to give thanks for the gift of salvation, as seen in Ephesians 2:8: "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God."
• God's Love and Faithfulness: The Bible emphasizes God's love and faithfulness. In Psalm 136:26, we are reminded to thank the Lord for His steadfast love, which endures forever. Today, we can thank God for the unchanging love that sustains us.
• Creation and Nature: The beauty and wonder of God's creation are celebrated in the Bible. We can express gratitude for the natural world around us and our stewardship of it, recognizing that "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it" (Psalm 24:1).
• Daily Provisions: The Bible teaches us to give thanks for our daily provisions, including food and shelter. In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus encourages us to pray, "Give us this day our daily bread" (Matthew 6:11), acknowledging our dependence on God for sustenance.
• Family and Relationships: We can give thanks for the gift of family and the importance of healthy relationships. Proverbs 18:22 reminds us, "He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord." We can express gratitude for our loved ones and the support they provide.
• Freedom and Peace: People enjoy freedom and peace in many parts of the world. We can give thanks for these blessings and pray for those in regions affected by conflict and oppression, as the Bible instructs us to "pray for one another" (James 5:16).
• Spiritual Growth: The Bible encourages us to give thanks for opportunities for spiritual growth and sanctification. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, we are told, "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
• Trials and Challenges: Even in difficult times, we are prompted to give thanks, recognizing that challenges can lead to growth and a deeper reliance on God. Romans 5:3-4 teaches, "we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope."
• God's Word: We can express gratitude for the Word of God, which guides our lives. Psalm 119:105 states, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."
• The Church and Fellowship: We are encouraged to give thanks for the community of believers and the fellowship of the Church. Hebrews 10:24-25 emphasizes the importance of gathering together to encourage one another.

In summary, the Bible calls us to give thanks for a wide range of spiritual and earthly blessings that are relevant to our lives today. Gratitude is a timeless and essential attitude that helps us recognize God's goodness and faithfulness in all circumstances, leading us to a deeper relationship with Him and a more enriched life.

JOURNAL

1. One question this week: What are you thankful for?