So Much for Which to be Thankful
January 5, 2023 by Gil Killam
Filed under Daily Devotions
By Gil Killam –
My wife was in the hospital for two weeks recovering from hip replacement surgery. The operation went well but the recovery has been very slow. We had lots of time to observe a lot of what was happening among the patients and nurses. There were many patients who were in worse condition than my wife. One woman who was in the bed nex to my wife had cancer and there was not much doctors could do to help. Her groans and her breathing made us know that she was suffering great pain. My wife began to think of what she was thankful for: illnesses that she didn’t have; her family; her children who are now grown and married, still loving and caring for her; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Being in the hospital reminded us of how much we have to be thankful for! It gave us a new perspective about what is really important in life.
Paul said, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonian 5:16-18 NIV).
Have we ever stopped to give thanks to God in the midst of the suffering in our lives? This was Paul’s secret as to why we may be suffering: that you may have a ministry in comforting others in their time of need (2 Corinthians1:4).
A characteristic of the generation in the last days is ungratefulness. Along with this come pride, abusiveness, disobedience, envy and strife (2 Timothy 3:1-2).
If we were more thankful, many of our problems would disappear. If world leaders would be thankful for what they have, the more peace they would experience. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7 NIV).
Something wonderful happens to each of us when we say thank you. Note how people’s faces smile when they are appreciated.
PRAYER: “Thank you Lord for the tests you allow in my life. Help me realize you may be preparing me to help someone in need. Amen
Gil Killam was born in New Brunswick, Canada and served as pastor in 4 pastorates in Saskatchewan & Alberta, Canada. Gil is married to his wife Lorna and they have 5 children, 14 Grandchildren and 5 great grand children. He is a graduate of Eston College with a Bachelor of Biblical Studies degree. He also served President of his denomination. Gil enjoys golfing and reading in his spare time.