All Means All

When things go as we wish them we appear to be very grateful to God; but what of those occasions when things go contrary to our plans and desires?  It is at this point the state of our souls is so often put to the test.

What should the prevailing attitude of God’s true child in the light of the knowledge and experience of the faithfulness of God?   Not only should the recognition of God’s supremacy, power, and faithfulness give courage, confidence, joy, and hope, but it should cause us to say with the Psalmist, “Bless the Lord, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name!” Psalm 103:1 Does not the Apostle Paul exhort us, “giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,” Ephesians 5:20?

Deep and consistent praise and the giving of thanks is needed. Faith is resting on the sure Word of the living God, and therefore says, “we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28; and therefore faith will give thanks “always for all things”.

Prayer: Most gracious and almighty God, we give You thanks for You have made us Your own special people. You called us out of darkness into Your marvelous light and we give thanks for where You have brought us from and what You have brought us to. We see Your hand leading, guiding, redirecting us. You have never left nor forsaken us and all that You have allowed in our lives, be it Your perfect or permissive will, You knew before the foundation of the world that it would be necessary in conforming us into the image of Your Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. So we give You thanks for ALL of it. Yes, ALL of it because You are our Sovereign GOD! Therefore, we will proclaim Your praises and give You thanks always for all things. It is in Jesus’ name I pray, Amen!
From Pastor Wayne Cockrell’s Desk