Giving [genuine] thanks can be quite a challenge sometimes, especially when you are right in the midst of the storm or the place of waiting. However, that doesn’t change that the Scripture says to give thanks always. I Thessalonians 5:18.
For a while, I wondered often about it. What I mean is this; I understood the principle of thanksgiving, even on the bad days, but I sometimes wondered if I was doing it right or not. Like, is there even a right or wrong way of giving thanks as long as it’s genuine?
******
I had a conversation with a friend some months back, and his explanation of thanksgiving was profound. He gave this illustration;
Imagine you intended traveling to Paris for say a Writers’ competition and the deadline for payment and take off was fast approaching. When you first mentioned the competition to your mom, she said she’d raise the money for you; and as the deadline drew nearer, she told you an urgent need came up. A close relative needed the money for an urgent surgery. How devastating, yeah?
SCENARIO ONE; you begin to complain and grumble, throw tantrums and get into fits with her and everyone. “Mummy it’s not fair. You promised me and now you’re breaking your promise. I wish I never trusted you in the first place….”
SCENARIO TWO; “Wow! Mummy, thank you for all you do for those around you. You are such a wonderful and selfless woman. You are our definition of a hero and a giver, and I just love you even more for all you do….”
Even though the overall story may not directly relate with how God operates, follow me, I’m making a point. What if your mom only said that to tease or test you? What if indeed someone urgently needed the money but she was already making plans to raise another for you? Which of the scenarios are most likely to have positive feedback? I’d leave you to answer that and also identify which of the scenarios best describes you when things go awry or contrary to your plans.
While you may successfully have your way in scenario one via emotional blackmail, you may just have successfully blocked the path for ‘tomorrow’s blessings’.
******
When God seems to delay and you wait on Him patiently in praise and thanksgiving, it is the ’emotional blackmail’ that makes Him do even more than what you asked.
After praying and praying for a need, begin to give thanks (in faith) for prayer answers. It works wonders, I promise.
Just like your ‘mom’, when you begin to praise rather than complain, it compels God to act on your behalf. It’s kinda like “even in the face of disappointment, this child trusts in my faithfulness and ability to deliver. So here, have this, and this, and this.” PS: that’s Him throwing blessings upon blessings at you. Lol.
In simpler words, your right attitude in thanksgiving, even while you wait, opens doors of blessings unto you.
******
When next you find yourself, like me, wondering about thanksgiving, remind yourself of my friend’s illustration, and ultimately, of this post.
Sending love and light your way.
Cheers to steady growth,
Zoey.
Zoey 