Dear Ones:
Thanksgiving is over, or is it? It’s the holiday that reminds us of how blessed we are to live in such a great land of prosperity and freedom. Obviously, these privileges are being challenged daily; but God’s faithful Hand has been manifested despite our many problems. “Let all that hath breath, praise the Lord,” says the Word. Paul said, “In everything give thanks.” Gratitude is something we consciously offer up to God as recipients of His grace. Heb. 13:15 states: “By him [Christ] therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.” Praise and thanksgiving are fitting to the believer who celebrates every day with an “attitude of gratitude!”
We rightly sing, “This is the day that the Lord has made; and we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Last week at the Mission chapel we sang: ”Give thanks with a grateful heart; give thanks to the Holy One; give thanks because He’s given Jesus Christ His Son...And now let the weak say I am strong; let the poor say I am rich, because of what the Lord has done for us. GIVE THANKS.”
Some believers had trouble declaring that they were “strong” and “rich” considering their earthly situation. These lyrics are not suggesting “the power of positive thinking;” They really point to the believer’s position or standing in Christ. Every saint the world over is “seated” with Christ in the heavenlies, being blessed with all spiritual riches and strength (cf. Eph. 1:3f). Despite our earthly situation, we are complete in Christ; Let’s thank Him for our standing as a new creation, covered by Christ’s righteousness; our sins are under the Blood and the indwelling Spirit of Christ “strengthens” us to “do all things.” (Phil. 4:13)! PTL!
But what if we don’t “feel” saved? What about sickness or discouragement, etc.? Your present “state” of being has nothing to do with your “standing” in Christ. Your feelings, etc. may fluctuate daily but your Standing is unchanging and forever! That’s the Truth—stand on it and be grateful! Don’t judge your “standing” by your “state”; rather judge your state by your standing. We don’t “feel” Truth; we believe it! You may sometimes “feel” unmarried to your spouse; but don’t dare verbalize it, or you may end up in the ER!
Thanks so much for your continued intercession for me and the work here. I need special grace to meet a full schedule. Pray for improved walking and healing for my neuropathy condition. Thank you!
With heart-filled love and gratitude to you,
Pastor Bill
Psalm 105:1
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