Today’s Scripture: Philippians 4: 6-7
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
I learnt the principle of thanksgiving from my mother. She was a woman, who did not only give thanks regularly for what she and her family had, but was clothed in contentment. In addition, she also took her time to teach us contentment and thanksgiving. She taught us that until you are contented with what God has given you, you will not develop and express an attitude of thanksgiving.
I remember when I was growing up. I had friends, particularly school mates, whose parents were better-off materially. Few times, I found myself comparing myself to them. My mum would observe and whisper to me, “Taiwo, count your blessings from the Lord; you will see how much God has blessed you with.” Comparing yourself to others will constitute a distraction to your life of thanksgiving.
Today, I live thankful, ever grateful to God for how far He has taken me and where He is taking me. The psalmist reveals in Psalm 100:4-5 the protocol of entering into God’s presence: “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name for the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations.”
In my personal meditations, I have come to the conclusion that a grateful heart will always give thanks and has no room for comparison. A thankful heart will always reap the best that heaven has to offer. I believe that the number one distraction to thanksgiving is focusing on what one does not have instead of counting one’s blessings.
There are so many things to give thanks for. Life itself is a gift. When last did you give thanks for it? The salvation of your soul is by His grace. Many are yet to find the Way. When last did you express gratitude to Him for that? The provision of the basic needs of life is from Him; many are living in abject poverty. When last did you deliberately praise Him for that? The working of your senses is a miracle; many are not able to freely exercise themselves in these things. When last did you appreciate God for this? Perspiration is by His mercies; many are not able to answer the call of nature naturally. When last did you pause and add it to your thanksgiving diary? Wisdom is from the Lord; many have been ruined by foolishness. When last did you acknowledge Him for this? Safety is guaranteed by God; many are running from pillar to post, living in war-torn countries, not sure of their safety. When last did you praise Him for the peace and protection you enjoy? Health is wealth from the Lord; many cannot boast of it. Do you thank Him for it?
Why not take some time out right now to thank God for all that He has done for you. Make this a habit and watch the heavens open and remain open over you, in Jesus’ name.
Memorise & Meditate:
“Make a joyful shout to the LORD, all you lands! Serve the LORD with gladness; Come before His presence with singing. Know that the LORD, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture.” Psalm 100:1-3
Prayer/Confession:
Father, thank You today for reminding me to be grateful and count my blessings one by one. I receive the grace to do as you have revealed. I am grateful, Father, for all I am and all I will ever be, in Jesus’ name.
