Colossians and giving thanks

Col 1:11-12 May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. (ESV)

This letter to the Colossians starts out with a prayer of thanks for the Colossian believers. By the end of the prayer the author is praying that the Colossians become a people of gratitude. Giving thanks permeates this short letter written by the Apostle Paul.

Giving thanks to God for other people moves us to forgiveness, unity and love. It changes or perspective on them and on ourselves. It refocuses our minds on God's grace rather than on our brother's frustrating actions or our sister's irritating habits.

Giving thanks in difficult circumstances refocuses our hearts on God's sovereignty, God's promises, God's truth and God's love. It comforts us by reminding us that everything is in God's hands and he will never leave us. It encourages us by helping us remember that our life is about more then these short years on this earth. It strengthens us by recalling that our strength in found in Christ, not in ourselves. Giving thanks allows the searchlight of God's grace to penetrate the darkness of our soul. Perhaps we would do well to give thanks more often then we pray for rescue.

Father, I confess that I am too quick to complain and far too slow to give thanks. Today may I live with a grateful heart.

By His grace,
Rick Weinert

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