Choosing Thankfulness

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 is a full sentence, but it’s packed full of powerful commands:

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Today, let’s look at the last of those three commands in verse 18: Give thanks in all circumstances.

This is one of those commands that, while simple, can feel daunting, or even impossible, at times. How do we feel gratitude when life isn’t fair, when pain tries to push out our joy, or when doubt clouds our vision?

The beauty of this command isn't about the absence of difficulty, but rather our response to it. When we express gratitude in all circumstances, it isn't a denial of challenges. It's a bold declaration of faith. It's choosing to recognize God's presence and power even during tough situations, not despite them. We don’t have to be thankful for our circumstances–but we can always choose to be thankful while we’re in them.

Recall God’s faithfulness, speak of His goodness, declare His character, and find strength in His promises when our own falter. Gratitude shifts our focus.

So, one more time, let’s look at all three of these commands together: Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Commit these commands to memory. Recall them when you are happy, when you are sad, when you are unsure, when you are angry–in every season, in every moment.

Reflect on these commands today.