Practicing An Attitude Of Gratitude

Saturday January 27, 2024
 

 Practicing an attitude of gratitude – is this just a happy little slogan or is it a way of daily living that will change our outlook on life?

 Always be joyful.  Never stop praying.  Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NLT)

 Is being thankful in all circumstances the key to a fulfilling life or an impossible command to fulfill? 


There is a wonderful story in the Bible that illustrates the gratitude principle.
  A king and his people were being attacked by some armies who were much larger and stronger than they were.  They were under intense pressure and filled with fear.  The king’s first response was to speak to God about the situation.  He called the people together and led them in a prayer which included giving thanks to God for His presence with them, His supreme power over them, and the history of times past when God had helped them.


God’s heart was touched by the king’s gratitude.  Through a prophet, God told the king that the people were not to be afraid or discouraged by the circumstances confronting them for they would not have to fight this battle.  The king and his people chose to believe God and to act courageously on God’s directions.  True to His word, God took care of them.  Their part?  Sing and give thanks to God.  Really?  (Read: 2 Chronicles 20:21-24)


Is giving thanks to God for all He has done for us our first response when trouble presents itself?
  Trusting in God’s power and seeking His direction are life recovery principles we need to apply in every challenging situation.  Like this king and his people who trusted God to act on their behalf, we will sing and give thanks as we recognize that God, through Jesus, has already overcome and eliminated the enemies we think are stronger than us.

 


Prayer:  Heavenly Father, Thank You for always being there for me and for Your promise that You will never leave or forsake me.  Help me to acknowledge every good thing You have done for me. I am grateful that as I seek You, and not lean on my own understanding, You will direct my path through every challenge I may encounter.  Amen


  

Audio for Practicing An Attitude Of Gratitude

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