Where Are the Other Nine?

If you’re like me, you are sometimes given to periods of discouragement.

It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and focus on the empty side of the glass, losing sight of the full side.

This post, then, is a reminder to all of us to keep in view what God has done for us and what He has given us . . . and to give thanks.

I’ll begin with a story of Jesus . . . taking special note of His question, “Where are the other nine?” . . .  followed by Paul’s continuous reminders to be thankful.

Those of us who have been touched by Jesus Christ are cleansed lepers.

Let’s not be among the nine.

Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed. One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him – and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” Luke 17:11-18

Neither should there be abusive language, obscenity or vulgar talk, but rather the giving of thanks. Eph. 5:4

Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Eph. 5:20

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Phil. 4:6

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.  Col. 3:17

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thess. 5:18

I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone. 1Tim. 2:1

For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving. 1Tim. 4:4