THANKS
It is a simple word but one that’s probably not used often enough. When one obtains a significant benefit such as a better job, or a gift, or really anything which seems to give them a real lift, then usually a thanks is rendered. But for more minor things - everyday courtesies, compliments, and gestures - gratitude is less often expressed. And when people are often really close, as in a marriage, then being taken for granted often develops and the giving of thanks is often forgotten.
Don’t we, however, often take for granted the everyday benefits we enjoy from God? Good weather, sufficient rain, sunshine, fall colours, sunsets, mention the food we eat, the air we breathe, etc., the list goes on and on. If we don’t consider giving thanks for these, it’s understandable why we probably don’t give thanks for storms, natural disasters, ill health, etc. People aren’t often in the mood to give thanks for their misfortunes. But isn’t that just what the Bible says we should do?
James 1:2-3 puts this way “…count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience” and 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 “…pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” But if people are reluctant to give thanks in the good times, how then can anyone really expect that they would be grateful in times of misfortune? A reason may be found in the book of Luke.
In Luke 17:12-19 the story is given of the ten lepers cleansed by Jesus. Of the ten, only one returned to give thanks to Jesus and glory to God for their healing. Perhaps, because it took some time for the healing to occur, the other nine didn’t think it necessary to make the trip back to Jesus. After all, Jesus knew they would be healed so why bother? But one did. And in verse 19 (KJV) it says “…thy faith has made thee whole.”
Now many translations use the word “well” instead of “whole” in verse 19. There is a subtle difference in the two words. Whereas well means healed and in good health, whole refers to total completeness in all respects: body, soul, and spirit. It indicates a further blessing than just a physically healthy body. It indicates a blessing that may be imparted when one continually gives thanks for the benefits God bestows, even during times of hardship and trouble.
It may be difficult, but giving thanks in both the good and bad times may have more benefit than just the satisfaction of being grateful and it’s something we should think about.
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