No, that’s not a typo in the title, although I can see why you’d think so. We’re much more accustomed to the reminder, “think ahead.”
But recently I came across that title-phrase in Debora M. Coty’s book, Fear, Faith, and a Fistful of Chocolate [1].
She suggests we turn hindsight—for all God’s previous provision, guidance, and blessing—into foresight and trust him care for us in the future, to thank him ahead of time for what he’s going to do (pp. 115-116).
A doubter might say, “That seems a bit presumptuous. Everybody knows God doesn’t always give us what we want. Thanking him ahead of time for what we may not receive doesn’t make much sense.”
Our doubter is partially right: God doesn’t cater to our every desire, no matter how fervently we pray. But that’s a good thing. Surely all of us can think of a deeply held desire that seemed within God’s will, and we repeatedly asked him to supply it, only to be disappointed.
We’d do well to remember what Puritan minister John Flavel wrote long ago:
We might begin to thank ahead by expressing gratitude for such blessings as deeper confidence in God as we cling to him in trust, greater strength of character that’s growing within, and important life-lessons learned as we wait [2].
But that’s not all.
To thank ahead is a step of faith in what we know.
For example: God turns all things to good for those who love him. We may not see what that good is until we get to heaven, but we know our perfect God always works things out perfectly, in his perfect timing [3].
To thank ahead prepares the heart for what God will do.
Let’s say we need a new car. It would be quite impudent to expect a new Corvette ZR1X and thank God for it ahead of time. But we can be grateful he’ll supply our need of transportation and give us the patience to wait, if necessary, until his chosen moment for provision [4].
To thank ahead turns our minds from worthless worry to uplifting truth.
Why is it our minds love to whirl around anxious thoughts? The act of faith-fueled gratitude shifts our focus from our concerns and problems to God’s attributes and promises.
Psalm 145:7-8 offers a list of attributes to get us started:
Let’s celebrate, not agitate!
Many of you know of George Mueller . . .
. . . who built and superintended orphanages in Bristol, England during the 1800s. Over the sixty years of his ministry, thousands of children received loving care within those facilities and learned about Jesus.
Muller was known for his devotion to prayer. He never asked for funding or borrowed to meet expenses.
One morning there was nothing to feed the children. George instructed the housemother to seat the children in the dining room as usual. He then thanked God for the food–and waited. George knew God would not let the children go hungry.
Soon a baker appeared at the door. “I couldn’t sleep last night,” he explained. “And somehow I knew you’d need bread this morning. So I got up and baked three batches for you. I’ll bring it in!”
Minutes later a milkman knocked at the door. “My cart has broken down here on your street, Mr. Mueller. It’ll spoil by the time we get the wheel fixed. Could you use some free milk?”
And the ten cans of milk provided just enough for the 300 children.[5]
Notice: In this case, George did nothing to solve the problem. He simply trusted and waited.
George knew:
By thanking ahead, we’ll grow such unwavering trust in our own hearts.
[1] Another thrift store find, published by Barbour, 2013.
[2] Hebrews 12:11
[3] Romans 8:28; Ecclesiastes 3:11
[4] Philippians 4:19; Lamentations 3:25
[5] https://www.georgemuller.org/devotional/a-famous-story-about-mullers-faith).
Image credits: http://www.publicdomainpictures.net; http://www.canva.com (3); http://www.flickr.com; http://www.publicdomainpictures.net.
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What an uplifting story about George Muller and the children, Nancy! Yes, let’s make a point to thank God ahead for what He will do, how He will act and trust that His ways are always best. An attitude of gratitude fosters a full and satisfying life. Blessings!
So glad you enjoyed the Muller story, Martha. And thank you for adding that last bit of wisdom, Martha: “An attitude of gratitude fosters a full and satisfying life.” AMEN to that!
Love the title, Nancy–and the message! It immediately put me in mind of Philippians 4:6, one of my favorite verses: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Thank you, Mitch, for adding Philippians 1:6 to the conversation. The Apostle Paul must have been one to thank ahead also!
Thanks for sharing this Nancy. Reminds me of a quote from a professor @ Alaska Bible College here in Palmer, Alaska …
“Write your plans in pencil and hand God the eraser”
Can’t help but think how my life’s journey would have been had I learned sooner to trust Him fully with my plans and “Let go and let God”.
Keep Looking Up ^ … His Best is Yet to Come!
I often think a “do-over” would be nice for some of my less-than-stellar moments in life! If only I knew then what I know now. (A common refrain among those of a certain age!) Thank you, Fred, for sharing the insightful quote from that professor!
I LOVE THIS! The story of George Mueller is one I’d heard–but not the specifics. I love the quote: “God isn’t asking you to figure it out. He’s asking you to trust He already has.” Thanking God ahead of any situation has got to be a real faith builder. Thank you, Nancy. Learning to trust God is a growth curve, and I appreciate your input to help with it.
Praise God you found this post meaningful, Dayle. I’m on the trust growth-curve right along with you! Your posts always encourage me too.
George Mueller’s story is one of the greatest examples of genuine faith. Thank the Lord for His blessings yesterday, today, and tomorrow! 🙂
I too marvel at Muller’s faith and aspire to trust in God as implicitly as he did. / As I thank God for tomorrow’s blessings, I can praise him for all his attributes he’ll bring to bear on each one!
I love that saying by John Flavel. I would probably not be so anxious if I knew the work the Lord was doing in the background
We can trust our loving Father IS working in the background, even when we can’t see (John 5:17). Such great comfort in knowing he is always wielding his power, wisdom, and goodness for the greatest benefit!
I read a biography of George Mueller MANY years ago. The one thing I still remember is the story you retold. He was clearly a man of absolute faith and trust.
Aboslutely, Linda! He’s a golden example of trust to follow!
I love this, Nancy. Thanks for sharing.
I’m so glad you found this post meaningful, Sue!
Thank you for this message. I appreciate your encouragement. Blessings.
And thank you for being a faithful reader, Melissa!
Thank you, Nancy, for sharing Mueller’s amazing faith. What a great post and I will focus my mind “from worthless worry to uplifting truth!”
We’ll focus together, Dana!
I collect two word wisdoms ( yes I am writing about these) and need to add this one to my list. What a wonderful wise concept to apply to our lives.
I love the idea of two-word wisdoms, Jean–easy to remember! I’ll look forward to that post.
Nancy, I love this idea of ‘thank ahead.’ Not thank God ahead of time for answers to our prayers (in the way we want them answered) but thank Him for who he is–his faithful character and undending love. A love that is always on our side and will provide, protect and guide…. no matter what.
“Thank ahead.” I need to write that down in my journal.
Thank y o u , my friend.
Such a wonderful post! God’s provision is always there for us and right on time. You are so right…trusting God is key. It is right to thank Him ahead of time…knowing that God keeps His promises always!