During the season of Thanksgiving, most of us tend to focus on giving thanks. However, when we only focus on giving thanks for the good things in and of themselves, that becomes idolatry. Rather, we must give thanks to the giver of all good things – the LORD. This attitude leads to enjoying giving thanks biblically.
Christians are to give thanks to the LORD because he is good. The LORD is good because he is above all and full of glory; therefore, deserves all our glory, honor, and praise. God is also good as the giver of all good things. “The goodness of God is that which dispose Him to be kind, cordial, benevolent, and full of goodwill toward men. He is tenderhearted and of quick symphony, and his unfailing attitude toward all moral beings is open, frank, and friendly. By His nature, He is inclined to bestow blessedness and he takes total pleasure in the happiness of His people” (A.W. Tozer). And the epitome of God’s goodness and love was demonstrated on the cross when Christ died for us while we were still sinners (Rom 5:8).
In God’s goodness, he gives many gifts. He gifts Christians direct and immediate access to himself. As his own children, the Spirit himself intercedes on our behalf. God also gives us ultimate purpose because he loves us, and we love him (Rom 8:28). Lastly, we are able to die well. History shows most people do not die well. Spurgeon once said, “Sudden death leads to sudden glory”. It is indeed far more precious to be with him in glory! This reality produces bold character for those that have tasted God’s goodness personally.
Christians are to give thanks to the LORD also for his everlasting lovingkindness. Lovingkindness is explained quite well by D.A. Carson: “Lovingkindness is a word found in older, more traditional versions of the English Bible, such as the King James and the New American Standard. The Hebrew word most often translated as ‘lovingkindness’ is checked, which literally means ‘covenant loyalty.’ Most newer English translations of the Bible substitute more common English words such as faithfulness, unfailing love, mercy, or good favor. All of these are viable substitutions, but, as with many Hebrew words, checked has no exact match in English.” God is lovingkindness.
God’s lovingkindness is what makes salvation possible and available for the sinner. God’s lovingkindness is active and responsive toward us (Ps 25:10). The Lord is most active in his communication through the reading of his Word. And it is by his lovingkindness we are able to pray according to his will with boldness and faith.
When God’s lovingkindness is working and active in one’s life, it is evident in unceasingly talking about the Lord Jesus Christ to others. Therefore, as we personally experience the Lord’s faithful love toward us, we are ready to share and cannot be silent. The psalmist sings of the lovingkindness of the Lord forever (Ps 89:1) and the Apostle Paul believed; therefore, he spoke (2 Cor 4:13). In the same manner, Christians today are called to repent of idolatry and acknowledge the giver of goodness and lovingkindness. As a result, Christians can faithfully live out their faith under all circumstances.
BIBLE COMMUNITY CHURCH 
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