2 Thessalonians 1:3 — “We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brethren, as is only fitting, because your faith is greatly enlarged, and the love of each one of you toward one another grows ever greater.”

Everything is a gift for which we must give thanks. As children, one of the first things we learn is gratefulness. “Say ‘Thank you’” is a constant reminder from many parents. It is polite, but also an obligation. When we receive a gift, the correct response is one of thankfulness.

The Bible tells us in many places to give thanks. Practically speaking, though, it is easy to think of giving thanks as a suggestion – we should give thanks because it will make the giver feel good.

But many of the Bible verses speak of thanksgiving as an obligation. Paul praises God for the Thessalonian believers, saying, “We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brethren, as is only fitting …”

Paul understood that everything comes from the Lord. He saw it as his responsibility and obligation to express his gratitude vocally for all God had done and was doing in his life and in the lives of other believers.

Try to think of any blessing that does not come from the Father. Those who work hard and are successful – who gave them their strong minds and bodies? Those who enjoy a loving family – did they have any say in the circumstances of their birth?

Sunshine, cool breezes and good food – where does it all come from, if not from our heavenly Father? Even the air we draw into our lungs comes from Him.

What about the difficulties life affords? The Lord, also, carefully doles them out. He sends storms to water the earth, trials to strengthen our faith and burdens to draw us to Himself.

Paul begins and ends many of his letters by expressing his thanks to God. His life was marked by gratefulness and reliance on God’s gifts. He never forgot what God had done for him, and was constantly aware of all God was doing in the lives of those about whom he deeply cared. Thanksgiving was a consistent attitude and action in his life.

I think it’s time for us to review our own lessons from childhood. Give credit where credit is due. Consider all that God has done and, say, “Thank you!” Giving thanks to the Giver of all good things is not a nice suggestion; scriptural wisdom shows us it is an important obligation.

Sandra Sheridan is a Midwest wife and mother of five. She shares her messages to her children with Farm World. Visit her at www.VersesFromMama.com