They did not honor God nor give thanks to Him. Romans 1:21
The Bible remains very clear on the actions and attitudes God calls sin. And, sins are always characterized as those destructive vices that can cause the downfall of a person or society. Among the many specific vices and sins listed, there is a surprising inclusion: thanklessness. Yes, the spirit of ingratitude ranks in the Bible among other attitudes that God rejects. Thanklessness represents a sinful disposition.
For although they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. (Romans 1:21)
In this verse, the omission of thankfulness to God reflects the seed bed of sinfulness. When we cease to be thankful, our attention moves from God to ourselves. We then become futile in our thinking and bent on pleasing self. Tragically we lose sight of the glory of God. This is why among the sinfulness and depravity described in the first chapter of Romans, thanklessness is recognized.
Conversely then, thankfulness is the act of a heart consecrated to God. And today we need to understand the significance of living daily in a spirit of gratitude toward God.
So, although Romans 1:21 offers a negative application, we are given the needful reminder of our responsibility to be thankful. Thanklessness fails to acknowledge God as we should – failing to acknowledge God’s faithfulness to us. We are called to honor God and to be thankful unto Him. For in this way we signify God’s activity of goodness and we glorify His nature.
So, consider the call to thankfulness as representing more than just a recognition of blessings. Thankfulness truly honors the activity and nature of our God.
Today as you worship our Lord, come into His presence with thanksgiving:
“Enter His gates with thanksgiving
and His courts with praise;
give thanks to Him and praise His name.” (Psalm 100:4)
Charles Spurgeon observed of this verse:
“Thankfulness in worship is like the incense in the temple. The whole place should be filled with the gratitude of God’s people.
We are receivers of grace. God’s goodness has powerfully and mercifully fallen on us. So, every receiver of mercy must be a giver of thanks. This is not simply a good act. This is our identity, our responsibility, and our privilege. May we never cease to be thankful. Let us live as people with grateful hearts.
Blessings
