When David was crowned king over all Israel [1 Chronicles 12:38], he prepared a place in Jerusalem suitable for the reinstatement of the Ark of the Covenant [15:1], which was accomplished with great rejoicing and immense ceremony [15:25-28]. It was a blessed and historic day. Interestingly, David immediately appointed specific members of the Priesthood to a regular ministry of thanksgiving before the sacred Ark [16:4-6]. He then handed over a magnificent psalm to the lead singer [16:8-36]. It gave them clear insight into what was expected, and it fascinates me how large portions of this Psalm reappear in different chapters of the book of Psalms! Israel was expected to learn the importance of praise in every situation and circumstance. Indeed, regardless of what might be happening personally or nationally, the people were encouraged to “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and bless his name” [Psalm100:4].
The same instruction is given to us: “…in every situation [no matter what the circumstances]”, writes Paul, “be thankful and continually give thanks to [Yahweh]” [1 Thessalonians 5:18; Amplified Bible]. It’s not hard to be grateful when things are wonderful, is it? But those times when ‘life happens’? That’s not so easy, is it? Do you get grumpy? Angry? Depressed? Worried? Discontented? Be honest with yourself. How do you react? We’re not asked to be thankful for everything, but in everything, and to do this continually. Thankfulness keeps our focus on the blessings and goodness of Yahweh even when things are dreadful. “The secret to living a contented life is cultivating and practising the habit of thankfulness”, writes Ray Bevan.
Yahshua lived by this guideline. When faced with over 5,000 hungry people and holding what probably amounted to a small boy’s lunch, He gave thanks [Luke 9:16]. The night before He died, when He was facing the most appalling experience, He instituted the New Covenant by taking a cup of wine and giving thanks [Luke 22:17]; then by taking the bread and giving thanks [v19]. What a Saviour! He was focused on the blessing, not the ordeal; in His circumstances He gave thanks.
“I will thank Yahweh with all my heart” [Psalm 9:1].
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You Are The BranchesClick to see the whole passage:
1 timothy 3:16 NIV - Beyond all question, the mystery from - Bible Gateway
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