Thankful Praising!

Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: (Colossians 1:12-16 KJV)

There is no doubt  in my mind that Paul wanted to share his reasons for thankfulness. Perhaps he heard Jesus’ words:

As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. (John 9:5 KJV)

Perhaps not, but maybe he read what John had written:

All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. (John 1:3-5 KJV)

Some within the darkness did comprehend. Of those He spoke:

Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. (Matthew 5:14 KJV)

I can’t imagine light being hidden in darkness. Think of the children’s song, hiding it under a bushel. Every bushel basket I’ve seen would seep light, it would be seen in the darkness, just as the city set on a hill.

In addition to His light, He has shared His kingdom with us.

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. (Romans 8:15 KJV)

Yes, we are His children and we should call Him Father. That makes me very thankful, and gives me reason to praise Him:

The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (Romans 8:16-17 KJV)

Did you get that “suffer with him” part? We are not promised a trouble-free life here. There is enmity with many things that are in this world. Our Father has been ignored, forgotten and declared dead across ages. Yet, His children continue to offer thankful praise for all He has done and for what He has promised in the future.

His Son knew about bringing children close:

But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. (Luke 18:16 KJV)

Let Him bring us closer, for that’s His kingdom.