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Sometimes we find difficulty in saying "thank you" and yet it is possible to convey
thanks without actually using those words. Read Phil. 4: 10-20. Paul had received a
gift which mean so much to him, and he did express his deep appreciation. In his special
way, he says he was glad to receive the things, which were "an odour of a sweet smell, a
sacrifice well pleasing to God" but he adds that they would receive an even greater
benefit because "my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by
Christ Jesus".
So then, let our Christian attitude be one of thanksgiving to God for all His goodness
to us, blessings both spiritual and material, and let us praise Him for the fellowship we
enjoy with those of like precious faith.
While it is right that we should constantly thank the Lord for all His gifts, let us not
forget to thank those who help us in any way. A word of thanks may give joy and
gladness as appreciation of kindness is so expressed. Let us not take things for granted
but remember to say "thank you".
No.4.
Joyfulness.
pp. 192 - 195
"Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice" (Phil. 4: 4).
Walking down a crowded street, do you notice the expression on the faces of the
people who pass by? How many appear cheerful? The successful businessmen, those
who own a car and a fair salary, and even younger folk, often look worried or perplexed.
How many people who attend church give the impression of being really happy?
Surely the Christian should be an example and radiate joy and gladness.
The wise man says in Prov. 17: 22:
"A merry heart doeth good like medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones."
If we are cheerful, there may be a benefit to health, for a healthy mind does affect the
body. One would expect those who suffer from ill health or some major disability to be
sad, but how often do we find such people relatively happy. We may know people who
have indifferent health who are an example to us.
If we refer to II Cor. 11: 24-28 we shall find a list of the trials and sufferings of the
Apostle Paul. The last epistles written from prison do not contain any complaint,
although in prison, Paul must have suffered much. He writes about the revelation he
received and he blesses God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, "who hath blessed
us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ" (Eph. 1: 3).