Jesus Calling: November 24th, 2024

Jesus Calling: November 24

Thankfulness takes the sting out of adversity. That is why I have instructed you to give thanks for everything. There is an element of mystery in this transaction: You give Me thanks (regardless of your feelings), and I give you joy (regardless of your circumstances). This is a spiritual act of obedience--at times, blind obedience. To people who don't know Me intimately, it can seem irrational and even impossible to thank Me for heartrending hardships. Nonetheless, those who obey Me in this way are invariably blessed, even though difficulties may remain.
     Thankfulness opens your heart to My Presence and your mind to My thoughts. You may still be in the same place, with the same set of circumstances, but it is as if a light has been switched on, enabling you to see from My perspective. It is this Light of My Presence that removes the sting from adversity.

RELATED SCRIPTURE:

Ephesians 5:20 (NIV)
20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Additional insight regarding Ephesians 5:20: When you feel down, you may find it difficult to give thanks. Take heart - in all things God works for our good if we love him and are called by him (Romans 8:28: And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.). Thank God, not for your problems but for the strength he is building in you through the difficult experiences of your life. You can be sure that God's perfect love will see you through.

Psalm 118:1 (NIV)
Psalm 118
1 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
    his love endures forever.

Psalm 89:15 (NIV)
15 Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you,
    who walk in the light of your presence, Lord.

Additional insight regarding Psalm 89:14,15: Righteousness, justice, love, and truth are the foundation of God's throne; they are central characteristics of the way God rules. They summarize his character. As God's ambassadors, we should exhibit the same traits when we deal with people. Make sure your actions flow out of righteousness, justice, love, and faithfulness, because any unfair, unloving, or dishonest action cannot come from God.