A Spirit of Gratitude
Daily Reading –
Nehemiah 8:10 “Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”
Philippians 1:21 “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
1 Thessalonians 5:18 “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
Gratitude has been described as the healthiest of all human emotions. Think about it: if you live with a grateful heart, if you live with praise and thanksgiving to God, it counteracts any toxic, negative emotions in your life. It elevates your spirit!
Any time I start feeling down, depleted, and tired, do you know what I do? I start praising Jesus! I start rejoicing in Jesus, that my sins are forgiven, that He's given me His Word and His truth to guide me, that I have a future and a hope with Him.
When I use prayer to express my gratefulness to God, He begins lifting my spirits, because His joy becomes my strength. And His strength allows me to stand strong in the power of His might!
Even when you can't physically stand, the joy of the Lord can be your strength. Despite your suffering, and even in your pain, God gives you a reason to be grateful.
Sometimes we just need a change of perspective. And that's why God says that we should begin thinking and praying with thanksgiving in our hearts. A prayerful life allows us to rest and reflect upon the goodness of God.
Don't stop celebrating what Christ has done for you. Rejoice in the Lord! Pray with gratitude! Pray with thanksgiving! Because I'm telling you even if you die, it's only going to get better!
Every breath you breathe, and every beat of your heart is a gift from God. Pray today for the joy of the Lord to fill your heart so that you can see your life with new perspective.
Ask God to help you see the many reasons you must be grateful.
“The things you take for granted, someone else is praying for.” - Anonymous