May 2026
James 1:2-12
CAUSE FOR THANKSGIVING
Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
I Thessalonians 5:16
It really is the will of God for us that in all circumstances we offer up praise and thanksgiving to him; and we can do that as members of the body of Christ. There are some things for which no person can really be thankful, the things we see happening that are offensive to God and contrary to his will. But even in these circumstances we can give thanks because we belong to a faithful Savior who provides for us, both in times of adversity and in times of prosperity.
“In all circumstances” also means during those times when our faith in God is severely tested and tried. James goes so far as to say that we are to consider it pure joy whenever we face trials of many kinds. His reason is very clear. These trials nurture perseverance as long as we hold fast to the Redeemer and to the promises of his Word. James assures us that the person who perseveres under trial will receive the crown of life promised to those who love the Lord.
Today, join heart and voice and thank the Lord for his goodness. The promise made to Israel has been fulfilled again in our experience. “My people will be filled with my bounty.” (Jeremiah 31:14). At the same time, we will also thank the Lord that in the midst of trials we can rejoice because our loving Father will turn them to our benefit, if not in this life, then surely in the life to come.
PRAYER
On this day we rejoice before you in the bounty of your provision.
Enable us in every circumstance of life to remember your Fatherly love and kindness and to look to you for blessing. In Jesus’ name,
Amen.