“Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God” (Ephesians 5:4)

This verse does reveal to us that offensive stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes point towards thanklessness. These three categories of talkers are captured concisely in Psalm 1:1. God’s word does say: “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful.” These are actually thankless talkers who take no delight in God. Romans 1:21 also says about them: “Because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts.” Job’s wife (Job 2) acted in this way when they faced a very difficult period. While Job fell to the ground and worshipped, Job’s wife instead said to him: “Do you still retain your integrity? Curse God and die!” Job responded saying: “You speak as a foolish woman speaks.” She didn’t consider thankfulness and her words were filled with foolishness.

This isn’t so with those who are thankful. Thankful people retain God in their thoughts and words. Hence, we remember the encouragement of 1 Thessalonians 5:18: “And in the midst of everything be always giving thanks, for this is God’s perfect plan for you in Christ Jesus.” Its God’s perfect will for us! Since its His perfect will, we are assured that God’s presence is guaranteed through it. This power of thanksgiving cannot be undermined. It’s a purifier of the heart and an encourager of faith towards God. So, let’s give thanks habitually. It will help us see and seek God in everything (Habakkuk 3:17-19).

#goodmorning 🌷

BeEncouraged❤️ Freely received. Freely shared