Thanksgiving as the Highest Expression of Worship

Rom 1:21 - For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

Thanksgiving is a day that many in the US gather with friends and family and give thanks for God’s care through the year. A host of traditions have been built up around it…various foods that we only eat this time of year, pies and whipped cream, and pumpkin in literally everything.

But in the midst of all the pumpkin-ness, there’s actually a beautiful truth in giving thanks that the Bible speaks of frequently. The terms in Greek are used more than thirty times, and always in very important contexts.

For example, Paul tells the Colossians to let the peace of Christ rule in their hearts, through the body of Christ in the church, and, as a summary statement, to be thankful (Col 3:15).

And a number of other passages make similar statements. Here are a few samples:

Eph 5:4 - …and there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks.

Phil 4:6 - Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

Col 4:2 - Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving;

And perhaps most striking…

1 Thess 5:18 - …in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

This is the will of God for us in Christ! Isn’t that remarkable?

But why is giving thanks such an important part of the Christian life? Why does God place such a dramatic emphasis on giving thanks in His Word?

In a very simple answer, Paul tells us that acknowledging God and giving thanks are the very things that divide believers from unbelievers. In Romans 1:21, Paul says that even though unbelievers know God, they do not acknowledge Him as God, or give thanks!

Giving thanks is the very mark of a believer because giving thanks is acknowledging the goodness and sovereignty of God. If God is good and loves us, and if He is sovereign, then everything in our lives is from Him, and should be a source of thanks!

BUT if He isn’t good, or isn’t sovereign, then the first response of our hearts will be grumbling, complaining, and unthankfulness. We won’t acknowledge Him, or give thanks to Him, and He will not receive the glory that He rightfully deserves in our hearts! In fact, the act of giving thanks is the very highest form of worship we can offer God!

Thanksgiving can be day filled with blessings or pains — a joyful or a tough day. But today, no matter how complex things are in your life, and no matter how hard or difficult your financial situation, relationships, or health are, remember—God is sovereign, and He loves you. Give thanks to Him and glorify Him today!