Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name. Hebrews 13:15
How true it is that “the things we take for granted are dreams to many people” [Grace quotes]. I find that living and basking in so much of God’s abundant provision, both materially and spiritually, there is a tendency to become lethargic toward His blessings. There is a danger of failing to have an attitude of gratitude.
Tonight we will have the opportunity to revive a right spirit of gratitude toward the Lord and one another as we celebrate His bountiful goodness to us.
Now, the question could be asked, ‘why have a special occasion to be thankful?’ Should not we be thankful to God “continually” as our text cites? Of course we should, but are we? Are our hearts bent toward being continually thankful?
Its like the Lords Supper - unless we frequently partake and celebrate His death burial and resurrection we will become indifferent towards the cross of Christ. Hence, we gather to “remember” Him until he comes again.
For a similar reason it is good for believers to be together and encourage one another with their expressions of thanksgiving for all things.
There are also huge benefits for the thankful believer. Gratitude toward the lord is “one of the primary identifying characteristics of a believer. It stands in stark contrast to pride, selfishness, and worry. And it helps fortify the believer’s trust in the Lord and reliance of His provision, even in the toughest times. No matter how choppy the seas become, a believer’s heart is buoyed by constant praise and gratefulness to the Lord. [John MacArthur, Grace to You, via Grace Quotes]