Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:1 – 2, New International Version)
Theme: Rejoicing and Thanksgiving
Context:
Yesterday we reflected on the need to study the Bible to increase our knowledge of who God is, recognizing that our inclination to rejoice and give thanks is linked to the image we have of God. Through the excellent contribution of those who commented we were able to reflect on some important biblical images of God that inspire rejoicing and thanksgiving.
Today we acknowledge the fact that our attitude towards rejoicing and thanksgiving is sometimes conditioned by the world, not the Bible. We are subject to powerful influences in our social and professional circles, the media, and academia. These influences are not always biblical.
Bible Study Passage:
Our Scripture passage reminds us of the need for a renewed mind that does not conform to worldly influences. Please study the passage and respond to the question below.
Question:
Think about the way society in general relates to rejoicing and thanksgiving. Can you think of some ways that Scripture conditions us to think differently?
Sharing your thoughts could be a big help to someone else. Please leave a comment on the blog.
March 1, 2023 at 5:06 am
Society does not see suffering and difficulties as reasons to rejoice, especially on behalf of someone else. However, Paul writes of suffering as a reason to rejoice. He is a great example of rejoicing and giving thanks on behalf of the church because of the love and sacrifice Jesus illustrated to us.
“Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church.”
Colossians 1:24
We will face challenges and difficulties as believers, when we share the gospel.
March 1, 2023 at 6:29 am
I think the very reason why it is often difficult to rejoice and be thankful in this world is because the focused of mankind is in himself and how the world views or accepts him. Definitely opposed to the way a true believer of Christ who has relationship with the Lord lives his life. A follower of Christ considers each day of his existence on earth as a gift from God, and therefore it is just right to live for Christ and give Him all the glory and honor in everything , be it in his work or simply by living every single day of his life. To me, my role as a wife of Japanese diplomat, especially now that my husband is the Consul General in our current posting is not easy. The best way to be happy and content that I’m doing my role successfully and efficiently is to be assured that I’m doing it all for the love of the Lord my God, that He can see my heart, the way I deal and relate with others, in such a way that is pleasing and glorifying to Him. If not for that, it won’t be easy to perform my role with so much expectations from others. For me, as long as I’m pleasing my God first and foremost then, I’m confident with everything and you would be surprised to feel the burden or the work is light and easy to carry out because the one who helps you to carry it all out is your God who is powerful and knows what is best for you. If others asked me how I remain calm and joyful, I guess my replied would always be because of my faith and love for my God. Yes I owe it all to Him! God’s grace and Holy Spirit are my constant companions..
There are many scriptures in the Bible that are helpful for our topic but these two verses I chose have been the source of strength and encouragement for me especially when I’m extremely busy with so much expectations, responsibilities and events going on in my life…..
Collosians 3: 23
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord , not for human masters. “
John 6:27
“Do not work for food that spoils but for food that last to eternal life, which the son of man will give you. For on Him, God the father has placed his approval.”
March 1, 2023 at 6:31 am
People in our society generally rejoice and gives thanks only when things go their way… when someone gets a raise, when someone receives a monetary gift and can pay their mortgage, when the driver of a vehicle crashes then realizes they are not hurt, etc. These same people will complain how little they get paid, envy someone with a bigger house, honk and yell at the driver in front of them who isn’t driving fast enough.
Scripture reminds us to always rejoice and be thankful no matter our circumstances.
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.” “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
March 1, 2023 at 9:00 pm
Thank you for these wonderful, counter-cultural verses that help to renew our minds where rejoicing and thanksgiving are concerned!