As you work your way through Colossians you will realize that giving thanks is a big deal. Colossians makes reference to giving thanks more times in less chapters than any other book in the New Testament. In 4 chapters it makes reference to giving thanks 7 times. In those 7 references we find at least 4 good reasons why we should give thanks to God.

1.     It recognizes God’s grace – 1.3ff

2.     It is a core part of walking in Christ – 2.7

3.     It is a key part of setting our minds on things above – 3.2ff

4.     It is an essential part of prayer – 4:2

Colossians mentions giving thanks three times in 3:15-17. Verse 17 says:

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (ESV)

That is immediately followed by a discussion of household relationships: wives and husbands, children and parents, servants and masters. The very next verse, after dealing with these relationships, is about giving thanks. The discussion runs from Colossians 3:18-4:1.

Colossians 4:2 says:

Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. (ESV)

So, between "whatever you do ... giving thanks" and "continue steadfastly in prayer... with thanksgiving" we find instructions on household relationships. Without grateful hearts toward God we have a difficult time demonstrating holiness and godly behavior toward those to whom we are closest. That is probably true because you can’t live out your Christian faith well in any relationship when you mind and heart is set on things of earth.

Doing everything in the name of the Lord Jesus affects how we think about ourselves, how we live and how we relate to other people. It's not so much about doing things well or with excellence as it is about doing things in a manner that reflects the character of Christ. In doing that giving thanks appears to be a key element. Verse 15 says to let the peace if Christ rule in us with thanksgiving. Verse 16 encourages us to let the word if Christ dwell in us with thanksgiving. Verse 17 instructs is to do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus with thanksgiving. Colossians 4:2 reminds us to continue praying with thanksgiving. Perhaps we struggle with these other areas of our lives precisely because we are not thankful.