Read 2 Corinthians 9:12-15.
Of all the things that thanks is given for in the New Testament, it is most often given for fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. In nearly every letter written by the apostle Paul, he gives thanks to God for the recipients. Some of the reasons he is thankful include:
- Rom. 1:8 – their reputation of faith
- 1 Cor. 1:4 – the grace given them (as expressed in the many spiritual gifts at work among them)
- 2 Cor. 8:16 – for Titus’ heart and concern for the Corinthian church
- Eph. 1:16; Col. 1:3-4; 2 Thess. 1:3; Phm. 1:4-5 – their faith and love for the saints
- Phil. 1:3-5 – their partnership in the gospel
- 2 Tim. 1:3-4 – for his companionship with Timothy
Did you notice the common theme in most of the passages of thanks for the love of the saints? Whether it was Paul’s personal love for his spiritual son, Timothy, or the love for all the saints, love is central to thanksgiving. And obviously our thanks to God for His love through Jesus Christ emphasizes this idea. When people show love to one another, our reaction should be to give thanks to God. Love is central to thanksgiving.
To consider: With today being Thanksgiving day, many of you will celebrate with family and friends. You will be with loved ones for the better part of the day. Before you meet, take a few moments (or more!) to consider the acts of love that people around you have shared. Thank God for these people – in praise to God and in words to those whom you are thankful. Consider giving a thank you card or expressing thanks in some other meaningful way to those to whom you are thankful.
(As an aside, Thanksgiving has a great tradition in many households. This year, consider starting a tradition of everyone sharing one thing they are thankful for before starting into the meal. And then give thanks to God for those blessings as grace before the meal.)