Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; — Ephesians 5:20
We are approaching the time of year that we always talk about being thankful. Thanksgiving is just a few short weeks away and everywhere you turn, you will hear someone talk about being thankful.
They will talk about all the big things they are thankful for. They will be thankful for family, for friends, for life, for jobs, and so much more. The scripture here in Ephesians seems to be indicating something more about thankfulness though. Something more than once a year and something more than the big things in life.
The verse starts by saying “giving thanks always.” It is a continual act. It’s something that is actively happening and continues to happen until we are no longer able to do it. That is certainly a lot more than just the once-per-year thankfulness.
But the verse goes one step deeper and says, “all things.” Think about everything that encompasses your life. It’s nearly impossible to remember to be thankful for everything, but the scripture seems to say that we should be thankful for it all. Have you ever heard someone say they are thankful for their toothbrush?!
That is exactly how simple this concept is though. It’s the idea that in everything of our life, that we are continually thankful. Be thankful that you were able to get out of bed this morning because so many wish they could. Be thankful that you have the basic necessities of life because so many wish they had them. Be thankful for all things, all the time.