As we have just celebrated a day of Thanksgiving, to pause and be thankful for our blessings, let us renew our resolve to develop a consistent “attitude of gratitude”. As we turn our focus off of the troubling circumstances, and remember His blessings (as the Pilgrims did on the first Thanksgiving), it opens our hearts to see life in a perspective, one that God would want us to see. To recognize Him as the sovereign God that He is, and honor Him by having a thankful heart! I want to share a few thoughts I’ve had on how to develop that attitude.
Trust Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.
As we open our hearts to trust God, and not lean on our own understanding, we find He is trustworthy!
Thank I Thessalonians 5: 16-18 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
God’s word is our guidebook to know and understand the nature and will of God. Sometimes it is really hard to “be thankful” when it seems everything seems to be going in the opposite direction of what we feel and think is ‘best’ for us. But, if we are obedient and choose to follow GOD’S will for us and thank Him “in” all things, it opens up our hearts to experience how God can turn and use all things for good (Romans 8:28).
Tell We have all heard the maxim about sharing our burdens and joys. I have reworded it slightly, in a way that is very easy to remember.
“A burden shared makes your heart less troubled;
A joy that’s shared becomes a blessing doubled.”
How true! I heard it once said that if everyone had a safe, trusted friend with whom they could confide in, we wouldn’t need as many professional counselors. Someone who can listen and understand, weep with those who weep; and rejoice (laugh & enjoy with no jealousy) with those who rejoice! Ask God for a friend like that, so you can give and receive blessing.
But, even more importantly is developing that relationship with God, where we tell Him all that is in our hearts.
Psalms 62:8 Trust in Him at all times, you people; Pour out your heart before Him;
God is a refuge for us.
Then, by telling others about God, we grow even more in our love for and awe of God!
“Let Me Tell You About My Jesus”! A great song, and great lyrics!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=euSwp_yTXr0&list=RDeuSwp_yTXr0&start_radio=1&rv=euSwp_yTXr0&t=85
Dear Lord, Thank you that You are a God who desires to have that close relationship with us. One who wants us to pour out our hearts to You, and who is faithful to work all things out for good, as we seek You! Help us to trust You more, and to be bold and eager to tell others about You! Thank you for Your boundless love and blessings! In Jesus’ name, Amen!
