“Giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭20‬

Paul had passed through many deep waters—beatings, shipwrecks, mocking, persecution, hunger, thirst, nakedness, and even character assassination (2 Corinthians 11:25–28)—and yet he could later write, “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

But what is truly amazing is what he wrote in Ephesians 5:20: “Giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

We may be able to understand how we can give thanks in everything, but how in the world can we give thanks for everything?

I believe the key is perspective. When I remember who it is I am giving thanks to, my perspective changes. We give thanks to a God who is always in control—never taken by surprise, never needing to readjust His plans because of circumstances. Even when choices are made that oppose Him, His overruling hand is still sovereign.

This is how Romans 8:28 makes sense: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”

This does not mean that our circumstances are good, nor does it mean the deep pain we may be experiencing is good. But we know that our God is in control, and for that—we give thanks.

Anchor For Today:
God’s power and grace are still the same and He is faithful. We can give thanks to Him for all things.