Gratitude in the NEW TESTAMENT shifts from the narrative of nat=
ional Israel to a personal dimension in the life and teachings of Jesus. Gr=
atitude becomes a hallmark of discipleship, an enduring thankfulness that e=
ndures regardless of life’s storms, reflecting Jesus’ own const=
ant gratitude to the Father.
Gratitude, biblically speaking, is a transformative =
force. It’s an invitation to view life through a lens of thankfulness=
, a catalyst for love, generosity, and justice. As we embody this spirit, w=
e are continually reminded of the abundance of God’s love and the int=
erconnectedness of our lives.
I Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstanc=
es; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”=
(Amidst the whirlwind of life, these words serve as a =
gentle reminder to always find joy and gratitude, anchoring us to a state o=
f thankfulness that is not dependent on our circumstances.)
Colossians 3:15
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your heart=
s, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.&=
#8221;
(Gratitude is presented as a companio=
n to peace, suggesting that a thankful heart is a peaceful heart, and toget=
her they guide the spirit of a community united in purpose.)
James 1:17
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, com=
ing down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like s=
hifting shadows.”
(This verse brings a=
ttention to the constancy of God’s generosity, encouraging gratitude =
for the unwavering gifts bestowed upon us.)
Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation=
, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.&=
#8221;
(Here we are invited to replace anxie=
ty with prayerful thanksgiving, a transformative approach that encourages u=
s to view our challenges through a lens of gratitude.)
Ephesians 5:20
“Always giving thanks to God the Father for every=
thing, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
(To give thanks for ‘everything’ is an invitation to em=
brace gratitude not just in moments of abundance but also in times of scarc=
ity, recognizing the presence of divine grace in all aspects of our lives.)=
These=
verses, rich in wisdom, invite us to reflect on the profound simplicity of=
gratitude. They challenge us to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness in all =
seasons of life, recognizing that gratitude is not only a response to what =
we have but also a state of heart that shapes our interaction with the worl=
d.
~~
Dr. Bob Griffin
“Abhoring all my si=
n, adoring only Him”
[email protected] www.grif.net