Counting My Blessings by Seph Schlueter: A 7-Day DevotionalSample

Day 6

I have a friend who has a crazy superpower.

He can’t fly, doesn’t have super strength or speed, and can’t turn invisible (at least as far as I know). He has something I think is way cooler.

He can say “Thank You God” no matter what is happening and mean it.

He’s put in a bad housing situation? “Thank You Jesus for always providing a place.”

He’s got a bad cough? “Thank You God that I have breath in my lungs.”

An unexpected setback happens? “Thank You Jesus that Your plan is better.”

All the time, I just hear him say “Praise God” or “Thank You Jesus.” It’s infuriatingly inspiring.

And it’s a super power we all have access to. Not only is it possible, but it’s expected.

Paul, in Thessalonians, says “give thanks in all circumstances.” Not just when it’s easy. Not just when things go the way we wanted. But all circumstances.

When someone else gets the job you wanted? Thank You God.

When you get made fun of or belittled because of your faith? Thank You God.

Even when bad things happen; someone you love gets sick, a rough breakup happens, you’re not sure how you’re going to pay the bills…Thank You God.

Why? Why does Paul tell us this?

Because Thanksgiving shapes our perspective. It allows us to not just see with earthly eyes, but from a heavenly standpoint. When we give thanks in all things, it more easily allows us to see how God might want to work it for good, how He’s still in control, and how He’s still good.

Thanksgiving in the midst of pain, worry, and doubt is a special gift, one that we can only give this side of eternity. In Heaven, we won’t be able to give God that type of praise because we won’t have any pain, worry or doubt. So let’s not waste it here on Earth while we have it.

Thanksgiving reshapes our perspective. In all circumstances, give thanks.

ACTIVATION

Read 1 Thessalonians 5:14-18. How can you apply Paul’s direction to your life? Write out the things that seem counterintuitive to give thanks for; the things that you don’t see the good in. Spend some time with the Lord and ask Him where in that situation or circumstance is there an opportunity to give thanks. Do it!