Topical Bible: Thankfulness: should be offered: Upon the Completion of Great Undertakings

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◄ Thankfulness: should be offered: Upon the Completion of Great Undertakings ►

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Thankfulness is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting a heart aligned with God's will and acknowledging His sovereignty and provision. The completion of great undertakings is a significant occasion for expressing gratitude, as it recognizes God's guidance, strength, and blessings throughout the endeavor.

Biblical Precedents

1. Solomon's Temple: One of the most notable examples of thankfulness upon the completion of a great undertaking is the dedication of Solomon's Temple. After seven years of construction, Solomon gathered the people of Israel to dedicate the Temple to the LORD. In 1 Kings 8:62-66 , Solomon offered sacrifices and blessed the assembly, expressing gratitude for God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promise to David. The dedication was marked by a feast and celebration, acknowledging God's presence and provision.

2. Rebuilding of the Wall: Nehemiah's leadership in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem is another instance where thankfulness was offered upon completion. Nehemiah 12:27 describes the dedication of the wall with gladness, thanksgiving, and singing, accompanied by cymbals, harps, and lyres. This celebration was a public acknowledgment of God's help in overcoming opposition and completing the task.

3. Return from Exile: The return of the Israelites from Babylonian exile and the subsequent rebuilding of the Temple under Zerubbabel was a momentous occasion for thankfulness. Ezra 3:11 records the people singing with praise and thanksgiving to the LORD, recognizing His goodness and enduring love as they laid the foundation of the Temple.

Principles of Thankfulness

1. Acknowledgment of God's Sovereignty: Thankfulness upon completing great undertakings begins with recognizing God's hand in the process. Proverbs 16:9 states, "A man's heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." This acknowledgment is crucial in understanding that success is ultimately granted by God.

2. Public Expression of Gratitude: The biblical examples often involve communal expressions of thankfulness, highlighting the importance of corporate worship and testimony. Psalm 35:18 emphasizes this, "Then I will give You thanks in the great assembly; I will praise You among many people."

3. Sacrificial Offerings: In the Old Testament, thankfulness was frequently accompanied by sacrifices and offerings, symbolizing devotion and gratitude to God. While the New Testament shifts the focus to spiritual sacrifices, the principle of giving back to God remains. Hebrews 13:15 encourages believers, "Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise, the fruit of lips that confess His name."

4. Continual Remembrance: Thankfulness should not be a one-time event but a continual attitude. Deuteronomy 8:10-11 warns the Israelites to remember the LORD and His provisions, "When you have eaten and are satisfied, you are to bless the LORD your God for the good land He has given you. Be careful that you do not forget the LORD your God."

Application for Believers

For believers today, thankfulness upon the completion of great undertakings serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of giving Him glory. Whether in personal achievements, community projects, or spiritual milestones, gratitude should be expressed through prayer, worship, and testimony, fostering a deeper relationship with God and encouraging others in their faith journey.

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Nehemiah 12:31,40
Then I brought up the princes of Judah on the wall, and appointed two great companies of them that gave thanks, whereof one went on the right hand on the wall toward the dung gate:
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