It is Good to Give Thanks

Psalm 92 begins with the simple declaration, 'it is good to give thanks to the Lord'. Most of us would heartily agree with this statement, however, we are always needing encouragement and reminders 'not to forget the Lord', and presume upon 'the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience'. On the other hand, some refuse to acknowledge God and his works at all and, therefore, refuse to give thanks to the Lord. The Scriptures speak of such behaviour as foolishness and warn of the serious consequences of not honouring God or giving thanks to him.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:12-24 Paul instructs us in the will of God for us in Christ: that we rejoice always, pray without ceasing and give thanks in all circumstances. We have much to pray for in these days as the New Year commences, but we are never without reason to give thanks to God and rejoice at the works of his hands. The very work of salvation and new birth through Christ is a good place to start our thanksgiving each day.