Today’s Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
A.J Cronin, the renowned Scottish physician, tells the story of his colleague’s unorthodox healing practice for patients afflicted with self doubt, anxiety, discouragement and fear. He instructed the patients, for a six-week period, to say ‘thank you’ to anyone who did them a favour and, to buttress their sincerity, he insisted they emphasize their gratitude with a smile. Within six weeks the patients showed amazing improvement.
The truth is, there are few reliable ways to keep the blessing flowing in your life like thanksgiving. Whatever you appreciate God for multiplies. It is easy to allow what we do not yet have blind us to what God has already made available to us. It was Melody Beattie that said, “Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more.” You cannot recognize the blessing of God over your life and not be thankful. Also you cannot be thankful and not see the fruits of the blessing multiply in your life. Why not take time out today to say thank you to God for His many blessings in your life. Even when things appear to be running contrary to your expectations, give thanks.
Paul knew a thing or two about this. They had been arrested for preaching the gospel and thrown into prison. Their feet were fastened in stocks, their backs were bleeding. But guess what they did. They lifted up their voices in praise and thanksgiving. The whole place shook, and mighty was their deliverance. The blessings of God will always flood the lives of the thankful. Be thankful! The blessings of God will overwhelm you, in Jesus’ name.
Memorize & Meditate:
“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” Hebrews 12:28
Prayer/Confession:
Father, I thank You for Your many blessings in my life. I thank You for my family, my career/business/ academics, for the Body of Christ, for my nation, and for all You have continued to do in my life. I thank You because Your blessings will continue to overflow in my life, in Jesus’ name.
