He says, "Give thanks in all things" (1 Thessalonians 5:18; D&C 98:1). I thought, "He is telling us what gift we can give to Him, to others, and to ourselves". I love it when I know what gift to give someone. It not only brings them joy, but it also brings me joy. Even in telling me what I can give, He is giving me a gift in return as giving thanks opens my heart to gratitude for the gifts I am given.
Here are just a couple of scriptures to ponder about giving the gift of thanks to God.
"Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things (D&C 59:7). I have come to learn that when I give thanks in all things, this includes my trials and my suffering, I am shown and taught to see experiences differently. I am able to see that God's ways are better and higher than mine. Through the years, trials, pain, loss, suffering, joy, healing, gain, and sorrow have all been opportunities to learn, to be refined, and to become more like my Savior. Give thanks for everything...it will change your perspective.
"O give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good: for His mercy endureth forever. O give thanks unto the God of gods: for His mercy endureth forever. O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for His mercy endureth forever. O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for His mercy endureth forever" (Psalm 136:1-3, 26). I like these verses as they have shown me that God is SO good to me! I make mistakes every single day. But God is merciful!!! He forgives me quickly, easily, and freely when I repent and turn to Him. He wants what is best for me. Someone may ask me how CRPS (learn more about that here) could be good for me. Well, it has blessed me to learn to appreciate my body. I have learned to be more patient, I have learned to have compassion for others, as we all suffer. These are just a few of the things I give thanks to God for, as His mercy endures forever.
I love this example of Christ with the loaves and the fishes. "And He took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks, and brake them, and gave to His disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up the broken meat that was left seven baskets full" (Matthew 15:36-37). When we give thanks for what we own, or experience, even if there appears to not be enough, He multiplies that which we are given. Try giving thanks for that which you have. Express gratitude for what you have been given and you will find you have more than enough, and to share.
One more thought. This is Jacob after he testifies of Christ. He says, "Behold, my beloved brethren, remember the words of your God; pray unto Him continually by day, and give thanks unto His holy name by night. Let your hearts rejoice" (2 Nephi 9:52). When we read, remember, and give thanks for the words of the prophets in the scriptures we come to know Christ and learn of Him, our hearts rejoice!
I know my heart has been changed as I have given thanks to God in all things. My life has become so much lighter and more positive, even in the difficult times, as I have practiced giving thanks daily. "...I say unto you my friends, fear not, let your hearts be comforted; yea. rejoice evermore, and in everything give thanks" (D&C 98:1). I invite you to give thanks to God. It is a gift you give Him as well as yourself. I know in doing so, your heart is changed, life is better, and we become happier. This I testify. |
| This is some of the practice I was doing when I realized giving thanks was a gift. |
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