In our Focal Scripture, Jesus took the loaves and gave thanks, before distributing same to His disciples. In the midst of an unsolved problem, Jesus took the route of thanksgiving. At a time when a miracle was yet to happen, Jesus gave thanks to God; at a time when the available resources to feed the multitude were meager, Jesus gave thanks; at a most improbable time, Jesus gave thanks. Results were still missing, but Jesus gave thanks.
Friend, as 2019 gradually winds down, step into the thanksgiving mode. Things may not yet be adding up, but still give thanks to God. Resources may be below the demands on you, but still give thanks; opportunities for increase may still be scarce, but still give thanks; your expectations may not yet have become reality, but still give thanks; your desires may not yet be granted, but still give thanks; give thanks despite the tears and pains.
Jesus gave thanks and broke the bread and fish afterwards, and the next thing that happened was multiplication. So His thanksgiving was the bridge between where He was and where He needed things to be; thanksgiving was the bridge between expectations and fulfillment of expectations. Thanksgiving will connect you to where you need to be; thanksgiving will position you on higher levels; thanksgiving will take you higher.
Don’t let the situation of things at the moment deprive you of your thanksgiving to God. Don’t wait until things add up before you unleash your thanksgiving; don’t wait for your miracles to be completed before you start thanking God. Even if you can’t see what God is currently doing for you, still thank Him; even if you feel you have nothing to show for your prayers and dedication to God, still add thanksgiving to your efforts.
Jesus’ thanksgiving was not in vain. Situations did not make a mockery of His thanksgiving. Hear me as I hear the Lord: your thanksgiving will not be a waste of time; your situation will not mock your thanksgiving.
