GOD LOVES AND ACCEPTS YOU
Throughout the Scriptures, God reminds us that we need to say "thank you" for the many things that he has done for us.
Psalm 100:1-5
Here, God reminds us who - and whose - we are. At any time, we need to give thanks for what he has done for us. We need to praise him for his love and faithfulness. However, there are two major reasons that we should say "thank you" to God - because:
1. HE HAS BEEN WITH US ALL THE WAY
Jeremiah 1:5
Our parents got to know us the day we were born, but God knew us even before we were conceived in our mothers' wombs.
God had and still has a plan for all of us. He has been with us from that time till now, every step of the way. He has protected us and set us apart for salvation and for a place in heaven. Souln't we thank God for all of this?
Deuteronomy 8:1-4
God reminds the Israelites, here, that from the time that they left Egypt he was with them. Even though the Israelites went through hardships, the hardships were to teach them and humble them. God has done the very same thing for us as well, loving us and providing for us. He has protected us, clothed us and taught us.
What do we often do in response?Remember, though, that we do not deserve anything, because we are sinners. It is only by God's amazing grace that we are here and have what we have. And doesn't God have the right to do what he wants with us? He is over all.
- We focus on what we do not have and therefore we grumble, complain and curse God, blaming God for every bad thing.
- We focus on how bad or limited the things we have are. We demand an explanation for every hardship that we face and demand deliverance. What an attitude!
Therefore, instead of complaining, grumbling and cursing, say a big "thanks." Count your blessings and be grateful.
- Be grateful for your income and give contribution - Proverbs 3:9,10
- Be grateful for your salvation by loving the lost and helping them to know God.
- Be grateful for the kingdom by serving others.
Deuteronomy 8:11-20
Always remember that all we have is from God. Thank him and obey his words always.
2. HE DISCIPLINES THOSE HE LOVES
Contrary to popular belief, discipline means love. We all would love to hear the word "love" and not "discipline." God loves us and so will discipline us.
Deuteronomy 8:5; Hebrews 12:5-12
The mark of a good parent is discipline. It says here that God disciplines those he loves and accepts us as children.
God loves you and accepts you so he will let you go through different challenges that will mold you and shape you into the awesome vessel that he wants you to be.
Q. What challenges are you facing or have you felt lately? What has been your reaction? Have you looked at these positively and sought to learn from them? Have you thanked God for them? Do you see God's love in of these?
Let us harvest all the righteousness from discipline. Don't be resentful, but instead be thankful for the discipline that you face.
God has been with us and for us all the way, and he will continue to discipline us because he is preparing us for eternity. Have a good attitude. Say "Thank you."
Back to List of "Reasons To Say 'Thanks' " classes