Beyond Sunday: The Elements of Giving Thanks

[Editor's note: Beyond Sunday is a Monday refresher to carry you through the week.]

Focus Verse of the Week

4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:4-7)

Classic Commentary

4. That a prisoner, soon to be tried for his life, should not only rejoice but tell others to rejoice shows the power of the gospel to comfort those who have made Christ all in all.

5. "The Lord is at hand" was a special watchword of the early church in time of trouble. It meant, essentially, "We are about to be delivered."

6. Three elements enter into our appeal to God: Prayer, the outpouring of the soul; supplication, stating our desires; and thanksgiving; we must always come to God, not in a complaining spirit, but with thankfulness for present mercies.

7. "The peace of God" is the peace that comes by putting everything in the hands of the one who is able and willing to deliver. Whenever we fully trust the Lord there comes a peace that is beyond the understanding of those who have never experienced it. That peace will be a guard our hearts and keep our thoughts holy and pure.

(Adapted from The People's New Testament.)

A Thought to Keep

As you give thanks this week, remember to thank the One who provides. Let your conversation be filled with His goodness - no matter your situation.