Thanksgiving (better late than never)

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

-1 Thess. 5:18

I (Ian) recently shared this verse with our NILI group here in Ecuador, during our last group devotional time.  That time just so happened to be the afternoon of Thanksgiving Day.  I reminded our group, as they prepared to end what has been a very challenging experience--studying abroad for a semester--that the command here is to give thanks "in every thing," not for every thing.

Studying abroad this semester has been challenging for our students; living abroad for these first 3 months has been very challenging for Hillary and I.  Yet, even during those times when we are less than thankful for our trying circumstances, we have this command to give thanks.  In fact, the Scriptures tell us that "this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."

The will of God is something that college students and young, recent graduates like ourselves are constantly asking about.  To the question, "What is the will of God for me?" one answer the Scriptures give is "to give thanks!"

For what, though?  Many things, but the Psalms give us some of the best reasons:

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.  (Ps. 107:1, & many other places)

I will give thanks to the Lord because of his righteousness. (Ps. 7:17)

Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men (Ps. 107:8,15,21,31)

The command to give thanks in the Scriptures is rooted in the character of God.  He is good.  He is righteous.  He is faithful.  Etc.  Though our circumstances may often try and tempt us, God's character remains unchanged;  therefore, we have reason to "give thanks in every thing."

We are thankful for how faithful our God has been to us so far in our time here in Ecuador.  We are also thankful that he has used you to bless us in our time serving here.  Your prayers have been felt.  Your support has extended our reach and eased our minds.  Your willingness to send us a quick message has encouraged our hearts.

WE GIVE THANKS for our great God and how is has been at work through you to bless us!