It is a simple question with huge ramifications for our lives.
The end of a chapter of a study[i] on the attributes of God asks, “Without a grateful heart, how can you honor God?”
The answer is as simple the question. You cannot honor God without being thankful.
The solution to the problem is more difficult in that it requires a change in thinking and a change of heart. But, it is a change any Christian can make with the help of the “Helper” Christ has sent to live in us.
A lack of thankfulness seems to reflect a misunderstanding of God and who He is and how He works – both in us and in the world.
Some are ungrateful because they’ve bought the lie that with Christianity comes prosperity in regard to worldly wealth. The Bible never makes such promises. In fact, if Jesus had “nowhere to lay His head” (Matthew 8:20), should we not be grateful for any form of roof over ours?
As a nation we’ve killed so many babies in their mother’s wombs, we are in the midst of a war that seems to be escalating before our eyes. It is reported that our own nation’s high ranking officials are beginning to shelter in D.C. The Lord’s structure for society is being dismantled by LGBT and Transgender movements. There’s a list of movements that goes on and on.
How are we to be thankful in the midst of the chaos, a pending war (or are we in it?). What do we need to know and understand?
As Christians we have to trust God, that He will work all things together for our good and for the good of our future generations – even if we don’t see it in our day.
The Bible says, “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, Like rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes” (Proverbs 21:1). That is all the kings, all over the world, regardless of the title people give them, all leaders are under God’s rule.
Why He is choosing the route we are on, I do not know. Is He directing their steps or removing His restraints that man has rejected? I don’t know.
Yes, we are currently at war but on multiple fronts – including a long-standing war on thankfulness. He is worthy of thanksgiving? Of glory, honor, and praise. Yes, yes He is.
So, the simple answer to the simple question of “Can we honor God without a grateful heart?” is no.
The apparent solution to the lack of gratitude would appear to be faith. Faith that God is sovereign and with us through every trial (even when they are the attacks of men). Faith that God will bless our obedience to His Word. Faith that He will supply all we need to respond to whatever call He places on our lives. Faith that He is greater than any other principality or power, or rulers of darkness and wickedness. And, faith that He will work all things together for our good and His glory.
What do you have to be thankful for today? Do our answers honor God?
I will offer to You the sacrifices of thanksgiving, And will call upon the name of the LORD. Psalm 116:17
[i] Behold Your God: The Weight of His Majesty, John Snyder, Media Gratiae, New Albany Mississippi
