Written by Stacy Landry for the November newsletter.

In his heyday, it was said that every word Rudyard Kipling wrote was worth 25 shillings. Hearing this, a group of college students got together and wrote him a letter that said, “We understand that every word you write is worth 25 shillings. Enclosed is 25 shillings; send us your best word.”

A couple of days later, these college students received a telegram from Mr. Kipling. The telegram consisted of one word. That one word, his best word, was “Thanks!”

That may very well be the best word there is in English or any other language. Gratitude and thankfulness are the most precious gifts we can have.

But, what about when the rain won’t go away and the crops are late coming in? God says, “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (I Thessalonians 5:18)

But, what about when my wife gets cancer? God says, “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (I Thessalonians 5:18)

But, how about when I lose my job and the finances are tight, then what? God says, “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (I Thessalonians 5:18)

Why should I give thanks? Because, God is God and He loves you. Because God sent His Son to die for you and to forgive you your sins! Because He promised to look after you through the deepest valley and over the highest mountain! Because:

“Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands.” (Deuteronomy 7:9, NIV)

“God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.” (1 Corinthians 1:9, NIV)

“God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope offered to us may be greatly encouraged.” (Hebrews 6:18, NIV)

This is why I can give thanks no matter the circumstances! Is your God big enough in your life to be able to give thanks no matter what happens in your life? Thanks is the best word every that God wants to hear from you.