Pastor’s Podium

In Ephesians 5:4 the Apostle Paul, from prison because of his testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ, instructs us that believers should be known for a thankful heart and disposition ... even through difficult times. After all, Jesus our Savior and Lord set the example by His attitude throughout arrest and crucifixion.

Holidays are typically a time of rejoicing and family; BUT to those who have experienced tragedy, the frivolity of the season can actually magnify the sorrow in the heart ... like rubbing salt in an open wound.

Rising above the sorrow begins by looking to God our heavenly Father. Colossians 1:12 states,“giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.(NIV)”

Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, Father God has accepted as sons and daughters and opened up the right of eternal inheritance in the kingdom of heaven to all who accept Jesus as their savior and Lord.

As John puts it in 1 John 2:17,“The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever. (NIV)” Paul states in Romans 8:18, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. (NIV)” Thus Paul also instructs us in Philippians 4:6,“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. NIV”

God is always in charge, always in control, has a perfect plan, and loves each and everyone with a perfect love ... a love so great that even before the creation of the world, He had already designed a plan whereby all who come to Him in repentance and accept the provision of His son’s leaving heaven to come to earth and become the sacrifice paying for our sins would be saved and accepted into the family of God (1 Peter 1:20; Revelation 13:8; Philippians 2:5-11). Thus we have the basis for true Thanksgiving and rejoicing throughout the holiday season and all year long.

This concept applies in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV, “give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.) ... for all things (Ephesians 5:20 NIV,“always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”).

This does not make it easy, but as the book of Hebrews reminds us,“God has said,‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’ Heb 13:5 NIV”