16 Be joyful always; 17 pray continually; 18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
I Thessalonians 5:16-18
Thank You… two very powerful and important words that are too infrequently shared. What and who are you thankful for today? This year I have intentionally been focusing the month of November as a time to really instill in myself an even greater heart of appreciation and gratitude. I want to learn to say the words, “Thank You!” more, and bless people and God with a true heart of gratitude!
The above quoted scripture is one of my many favorites. It challenges us to live lives that are full of joy… always; giving thanks in everything. This is a hard practice, but is a discipline that truly helps us to have hearts full of gratitude daily. When we really think about it, we have so much to be thankful for, especially in the U.S. with so much excess and comfort all around us! Though we have trials and challenges, most of us have homes, family, friends, daily provisions, and blessings above and beyond what we need! For these people and things, we each have reason daily to be thankful.
One of the greatest blessings of my life is those moments when I have heard someone say, “Thank you!” to someone else for the blessing they have been. Its incredible how we can encourage and bless each other… as a way to build up the body of believers in Christ. Its also quite amazing being on the receiving side, when someone reaches out and lets you know that you are appreciated and have contributed into their lives.
I challenge and encourage us to begin (or continue) intentionally to develop attitudes, hearts, and lifestyles of gratitude and appreciation. It is a command of the Bible, as well as a means to growing more in the likeness of Jesus. Take time today to thank God for the many blessings, people, and things in your life… as well as the challenges and trials that God has allowed to help grow you in patience and maturity. Please also reach out to someone today by really letting them know of your thankfulness for them in your life! Thank YOU for taking this serious, and really allowing yourself to be God’s voice of blessing to others!
The video/song link below is to a song that inspires me often to be mindful of my life actions and the impact I want to have on others. I believe that the situation of the song is one of the most amazing ways to hear those great words… THANK YOU!!
