What upsets you? We all have something, whether it is a pet peeve that grates on our nerves or some greater offense that stirs all kinds of indignation in us. If left unchecked, our reactions to these provocations can ruin good days, produce sleepless nights, and wreck relationships. While we can never prevent situations arising or other people doing things that we find upsetting, we can absolutely choose how we respond to them. As Christians, it is critical that our responses be different. Different than the world around us. Different than how we ourselves would have responded if not for Jesus.
The Apostle Paul wrote to the Christians in Ephesus: “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5:15-21, ESV).
Our normal reactions to upsetting things are unwise. They waste time. They are foolish, doing nothing to help advance God’s will. So, our charge is to choose and be different by filling ourselves up with God’s Holy Spirit. Instead of numbing the pain or seeking distraction, God teaches us to sing – to bring our hearts whether they are joyful or wounded to Him. He teaches us to sing together: instead of finding someone to listen to our gripes, we find someone with whom we can sing God’s praises and give thanks – always and for everything. When we’re upset, it is so easy to focus on the negative. Paul instructs us to find something to thank God for instead. No matter what we are going through, He is still good. Focusing on that and making ourselves thank Him for all the ways it shows will change how we feel.
And how we act. Because when you’re filled with the Spirit, your reverence for Christ leads you to submit – to voluntarily put the needs of others before yourself. Like Jesus did when He died on the cross for us. As we learn from Him how to navigate life – especially when it is upsetting – and seek to be filled with His Spirit, we will find a reason to be thankful, always and for everything.
Explore more opportunities to tell God thank you through our series Enter with Thanksgiving.