Present With the Lord

If we are about to die, as to the body, can we give thanks, or is all uncertain in that solemn moment? We can surely give thanks, for we well know that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Concerning this the Christian alone can say, "We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord." 2 Cor. 5:8.
In the immediate prospect of the coming of the Lord, that which will so terrify the world, can we look forward to His coming and give thanks? Yes, with fullest joy, for come what may, Jesus has given this divine assurance, saying, "I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:2,3.
If you are a Christian, you can give thanks for every one of these things; if not, you cannot give thanks for any one of them. We might go on and add greatly to the list of matters for "thanksgiving." "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ." Eph. 1:3.
Unnumbered comforts to my soul
Thy tender care bestowed,
Before my infant heart conceived
From whom those comforts flowed.

Ten thousand thousand precious gifts
My daily thanks employ;
Nor is the least a cheerful heart
To taste those gifts with joy.

Through every period of my life
Thy goodness I'll pursue;
The desert past, in glory bright,
The precious theme renew.

Through all eternity to Thee
A joyful song I'll raise;
But, oh! eternity's too short
To utter all Thy praise.