Gratitude or Grumbling? - Colossians 1:4

We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you.

(Colossians 1:4)

Grumbling comes naturally, takes little thought, causes much damage, and should be safeguarded against at all costs. We do not have to teach children how to grumble, but we do need to encourage them to be thankful. Even as adults, if a person was hiding in the shadows, keeping a record on any certain day of the times we grumbled or showed gratitude, we might be disappointed in ourselves. Sometimes it’s easier to see what’s wrong and lose sight of what’s right!

Colossians was written by inspiration of God, by the Apostle Paul. Paul suffered greatly as a minister of Christ (II Corinthians 11:23-28). Yet, this dear man, instead of grumbling, showed his gratitude time and time again. The “thanks” that Paul gives to the Lord isn’t so much concerning himself, but is given to God concerning others. Colossians 1:3-8 is one long sentence.

In this one sentence, Paul thanks the Lord for the salvation of the Colossian believers, the service of these believers, and the sacrifice of these believers as well.

This Thanksgiving season, let us, like Paul, be thankful to God for what He has done for Oakdale this past year: for souls that were saved, for spiritual growth in believers, for the ability to minister to the hurting, and the fellowship we have with one another.

Are there problems? Sure! But let’s look through them and be grateful, and, like Paul, praise God for the good things He has done!

Tell the Lord, and then tell them!