What To Do In Times Like These? Give Thanks!

Beloved,

It is early in the morning and I am operating on God's time. What I mean is that God does not slumber or sleep, as scripture tells us, and everyone else in my house, except for me, is doing just that. I look outside and can see that street lights are on but house lights are off. So, others are slumbering and sleeping too.

I am not worried about anything in particular. I am just up because God woke me up. And, thank God that I woke up. It means that God still has something for me to do on this side of glory for Him.

In times like these, where turmoil, trouble, trials, and tribulations can seem to be on every hand, we must look for and see the goodness and greatness of God.

And, in your seeing, see your place within it. And, I do not simply mean your place within the pews.

I mean your place within the mosaic of life that is a part of kingdom-building for God.

And, what does that look like?

1 Thessalonians 5:14-18 says,

"And we urge you, beloved, to admonish the idlers, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with all of them. See that none of you repays evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to all. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

Let us unpack that in reverse:

1. God has a plan for your life

2. Thank God in everything, good or bad

3. While going through, don't stop talking to God, or praying if you want to call that talking to God

4. Be joyful and hold your peace

5. Do good to everybody, not just to those you love or like

6. Do good to your brothers and sisters in Christ, part of that everybody

7. Do not even think about getting even with somebody who does you wrong

8. Be patient with those who get on your nerves

9. Be helpful to those who need help 10. Encourage those who want to quit

11. Give tough love, emphasis on love, to those who do not want to do anything but make excuses

12. Know that you are loved

13. Know that you have others standing with you, behind you, and all around you who are just like you

A list of thirteen points to consider in times like these. I think this is what is called a "baker's dozen". It is that time of year where my sweet tooth gets more than satisfied. So, please forgive my constant food analogies.

If you could do all of these things, it would make a difference for you and those around you.

If you started out by doing one of these things each day, it would make a difference for you and those around you.

Maybe, in this season of Thanksgiving, giving of thanks, you should print off this list and post it somewhere.

And, remember that, in times like these, God is still God. Jesus is still Jesus. The Holy Spirit is still the Holy Spirit. And, you are still a child of the Most High God, adopted into the royal family of God by the blood of Jesus the Christ on the confession of your faith, and lovingly guided by the promised comforter the Holy Spirit. Remember these things.

So, in times like these, what are we to do? Give thanks!

We are continuing our journey this evening at Bible Study. We have room for more. You be there and bring someone with you.

I love you and look forward to being with you soon.

Be blessed,

Rev. Cain