When reading the title of today’s ‘Whisper,’ don’t view it as a flippant expression of relief, but as something scripture reminds us repeatedly to do. But why? The Apostle Paul calls us to “give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) Most of us desire to know God’s will for our lives, and here it is, at least a first step, give Him thanks.

God knows that when we pause and give thanks in the midst of overwhelming grief and trials that our heart is lifted and our thinking is transformed. Giving thanks to our Heavenly Father takes our focus off ourselves. Regardless of our circumstances we can thank Him for who He is. We are instructed to “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good” (Psalm 107:1a) and because “He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57b)

The One who sits on the throne of heaven is truly worthy of our thanks. (Revelation 4:9) May this holiday season begin with our offerings of daily thanksgiving!