Thanksgiving

How much of our lack of health is our own fault? In class this week, we explored the issue of personal responsibility. We tend to arrive at the conclusion that a large portion of our health is our own culpability. We say, "If you are willing, you can be made well." I feel like we apply the same principle when considering healing - if we are willing and have the faith, we will be made well.

Therein lies the problem. The Bible says, "If You are willing, Lord, You can make me well." [Luke 5:12]. Healing depends on God's willingness. I am certain that it requires faith on our part. But God's will has to be to restore us then and there. That is what makes it glorious. His favor in our lives is precious. Luke 7:11-15 tells the story of a widow who's son had passed away. Verse 13 says that Jesus had compassion on her and restored her son's life in front of not one, but two large crowds. This was totally not Jesus's modus operandi, but He was compelled by His compassion. Truly His intervention in our life is precious.

This is Back to Basics Lesson 4: Be Thankful. It is so important to offer our thanks whenever we can, acknowledging that it is really His grace that keeps us from a car accident, that we have a meal before, that we survive another day of school and/or work, that we have a school and/or job to attend. There are so many other things to be grateful for, but the important thing is to be grateful genuinely. Routine tends to diminish sincerity, so if we need to, we should change up how we offer our thanks, but do please be sincere.

Philippians 4 advises us to rejoice for what He's done for us in the past instead of focusing on the problems of the future. Recall Peter turning his eyes away from the miracle of water-walking to the waves, causing him to sink. [Matthew 14:25-32]. In thanks, we ought to offer up our supplications to God. Don't be afraid to try it. It makes it easier for us to believe when we ask for something while simultaneously thanking God for the last time He helped us. When spoken with thanks, God's peace will reign. We studied previously of God's sovereignty. His peace will reign through the problems, guarding our hearts and minds through Jesus Christ. As Jesus's focus was constantly on His Father, offering up thanks will refocus us on the God of heaven, knowing that it is truly His will to shepherd us. [Psalm 79:13] Praise comes naturally when we remind ourselves of God's goodness. Take the time now to remember His provision and be blessed.

God bless,
Alisha