Let us give thanks because He alone is worthy and we are commanded to do so.
But have you ever noticed that God’s commands and teaching are for our good? He doesn’t give us commands just to give us commands. He isn’t pointing His finger at us like a harsh parent who disciplines out of anger.
His commands bring LIFE. His commands bring true peace and joy into our lives. When we are walking in sin, we are not living our best God‑given abundant life. Momentary pleasure never leads to true peace. And it ultimately leads to a miserable life.
And this is how God created it to be. How He created us. To live lives of gratitude and praise and worship. Because He deserves our praise, but also because in His lovingkindness He created us with a void that can only be filled by Him and walking with Him, by faith and with gratitude.
It is GOOD FOR US to give thanks. It is good. No matter what is happening around us or within us, God knew we would need the reminder to look up, to give thanks, no matter what.
Scripture reminds us of this truth again and again:
“It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High; to declare your steadfast love in the morning, and your faithfulness by night…” Psalm 92:1–2
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.” Psalm 136:1
“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 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.” Colossians 3:15–17
May this be our posture today and every day: gratitude that lifts our eyes, steadies our hearts, and keeps us walking closely with Him.