I Corinthians 1:4

I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ (KJV)

Then: Letter element #4 coming through in five verses -- thanksgiving. Verse 4 concentrates on God's faithfulness in the past. Dr. Magness suggests readers note the "who, when, what and why" answers. Who? Paul thanks God. (He decides to include thanks to God from the Corinthians.) When? Always? What? God's grace sent to the Corinthians by Christ. N. T. Wright advises readers that Paul is sneaking in thoughts of the letter's coming topics. Grace is important and just can't be taken for granted. Thanking God for it helps recipients develop an accurate Christian world view. A basic understanding of grace underlies an attitude of being open to God's teachings.

Now: It is easy for 21st materialistic-centered Christians to take God's gifts for granted. Those without the sharp perception that grace comes from the Lord may become proud. That attitude produces churches which wither and die. The ones who recognize the source and substance of the gift can and do minister successfully. Taking time to give thanks gives glory to God at the same time that it structures great attitudes about work in the church. Conclusion: Take time to thank God.