Inspirational Message: Paul Advised the Romans to Thank God

By Gladys McElmore

Paul’s letter to the Romans can encourage all of us to experience the need for a sense of gratitude to almighty God. Every day can be a day of thanksgiving as we continue to express gratitude in all circumstances. It is expedient for each of us to seek Him thankfully for God can and will bless us in more ways than we will ever imagine. 

In Paul’s teachings, what do we learn about God’s promises for all who have faith? In Romans 4:13-21, we are reminded of how Abraham and his descendants were given a promise from God to have the world! Paul taught that this promise was not made because Abraham had obeyed a law, but because his faith in God made him acceptable. If Abraham, and his descendants were given this promise because they had obeyed a law, then faith would mean nothing and the promise would be worthless, according to Paul’s letter to the Romans. Paul continued by telling us that everything depends on having faith in God, so that God’s promises are assured by His great kindness. So, therefore we are wise to thank God for any promise that He has made! In this passage of Scripture, Abraham was promised many descendants. When all seemed hopeless for Abraham and his wife, he never let his faith in God become weak. Abraham never doubted or questioned God’s promises. With strong faith, he gave God all the credit. So God accepted Abraham because of his faith.

These Scriptures were written for us too for our faith in God who raised Jesus Christ from the dead so that we would be made acceptable to Him. What does it mean to be acceptable to God? How does Paul advise us about such gratitude?

By faith, Paul taught the Romans and it is still true for us today, that it is by faith that we have been made acceptable to God. Much progress needs to be made spiritually concerning gratitude with faith. What creates heartfelt gratitude to God? This does not come from an easy life. All of our problems and difficulties help us to learn to trust and praise God in every situation. We can always thank God for not allowing us to be defeated by life’s challenges. 

2 Cor. 9:15 gives us our greatest reason to thank God. We can thank Him countless times for His indescribable gift in the life of His Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and for salvation through Him. Though He was without sin, He willingly gave His life for us! We must continue to choose to be grateful. God is always waiting for our words of appreciation. God is available, but He lets us make our own choices. Thank God for all He is and for all He does for us. Let us never forget to also thank Him for our victories. Let us follow Paul’s advice and give thanks to Almighty God!

Mrs. Gladys R. McElmore, a resident  of Norfolkís Middle Town Arch Community, is a New  Journal and Guide Freelance Contributor on religion. She is a native of Essex County, Va.