Sometimes or maybe often, there are circumstances in life that depress us. Everyone will, sooner or later, encounter this. The question then arises as to how we can, in such circumstances, still give thanks, as Paul writes about it in Ehesians5:20 and in 1Thessalonians 5:18? Giving thanks can only be done for things that make us happy, isn’t it? However logical this may seem, it is a great mistake to think so. We do not give thanks because we are happy with what is our situation. It is the reverse: we are happy, because we give thanks for what is our lot and our condition! By giving thanks for all things, we are made to realize that GOD is in control of all that happens. The difficulties and struggles we encounter are not against us, as it might seem. That is impossible because, since God is for us, who or what can be against us? (cp Rom.8:31). Give God the honor which He deserves as PLACER of everything and give Him thanks! Thus (and in no other way) will our hearts and minds be enlightened (Rom.1:21). This will cause us to radiate happiness and gratitude!
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Translation: Peter Feddema
