From an early age, we were told to use the words “please” and “thank you.” We learned early on that these were important words. We probably didn’t understand why they were important, but for some reason when we used them there was a positive response.
As we got older we found out that we even have a special holiday set aside just to say “thank you.” Again, we probably didn’t totally understand why it was important. We learned about the Pilgrims, and maybe we heard about Squanto, but we probably didn’t really get it. We were just glad we had a four-day holiday from school and we got to eat lots of great food and…for football fans…watch football!
We say “thank you” regularly, but how often do we think about the message beneath the words? ...
When Gordon MacDonald responded to this question, he said that the message seems to be: “I am acknowledging something—a gift, a word, an action—that you have offered to me. It has added value to my life, and I am compelled to celebrate what you have done.”
Sounds pretty deep. I’m not really thinking that when I say “thank you” to someone who just gave me a warm chocolate-chip cookie. However, if I think about it, when I say “thank you” after receiving the cookie that is how I feel. The cookie has added value to my life! Given me reason to live! I want to celebrate what they have done! “Thank you!” I am grateful for the cookie!
Saying “thank you” is a significant interchange. It is an essential element to healthy relationships: friendships, marriage, family, organizations of all sizes and shapes…and our relationship with God. If we neglect expressing our thankfulness, over a period of time the quality of any of those relationships deteriorates.
So, let’s look at our relationship with God. More frequently than any of His other attributes, the writers of Scripture gave thanks for two of God’s character traits – His goodness and His love – a little more substantial gift than a chocolate-chip cookie!
The thought that hits me when I realize this fact is that those two attributes of God may be what I doubt the most – In the midst of difficulty, trials, or suffering, I question God’s goodness. When I find myself experiencing loss, failure, or rejection, I wonder if God really loves me.
I don’t think it is just me who is like this. I observe that same doubt throughout Scripture and in others. Back in the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve doubted God’s goodness. Ever since then, we have wondered if God will still love us. Wayne Jacobsen wrote a book a few years ago, “He Loves Me! Learning to Live In The Father's Affection” because so many of us have a hard time believing, deep down, that God really loves us. After experiencing shame or rejection or failure, we don’t feel lovable and may believe God will withhold His love from us.
Giving thanks to God when we receive a “good” thing – a warm chocolate-chip cookie – tends to be easier than when we go through a trial. However, from a long-term perspective, what provides more “nutrients” for long-term growth? Do we see it as a gift? Do we see it as coming from a loving and good God?
Giving thanks even during difficult circumstances or relationships is still essential. In fact, being thankful can be the bridge between anger towards God and an acceptance of His will. It can be a step towards a deeper love of others…including God. We could add to what Gordon MacDonald said, “I am acknowledging something—a gift, a word, an action—that God has offered to me. It has added value to my life, and I am compelled to celebrate what He has done,” knowing that He has something bigger and better in mind.
So, during this time of year, be thankful…no matter the circumstances. Are you in the midst of difficulty? Remind yourself of God’s goodness and love. Thank Him for being that way. It will bring you hope, comfort, confidence and assurance. At some point, you will see the value in it and be compelled to celebrate what He has done. You will realize the deep message behind the words.
It is good to give thanks to the Lord,
to sing praises to the Most High.
Psalm 92:1
No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NLT)
And you will always give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 5:20 (NLT)