When I was putting my grandson to bed, I asked him if he would like to pray. In a distressed voice he said, “All I know how to say is thank you!” We prayed together, and I kissed him good night. Walking away, I could not get his words out of my head. Such a simple thought but so profound. We have so much for which to thank God every day.
The Bible encourages us to be thankful in our prayers:
“Pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18, NIV)
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7, NIV)
A thankful attitude emerges when we’re grounded in faith. If I really believe that God is in control, I can indeed thank God always, even in the middle of circumstances that are not to my liking. I must trust that He loves me and I must rely on His promise to make “all things work together for good.” (Romans 8:28)
When I choose to thank God for every circumstance in my life, good or bad, it causes me to anticipate the future positively—to look forward to how God will work through the situation rather than vex over the problem at hand. Praying with thankfulness also leads to peace! Some poor souls have spent their whole lives and fortunes, but have not found the peace for which they have longed. God offers His peace freely if we are willing to trust Him.
‘Only knowing how to say “THANK YOU!” is not a bad place to be!
Lord, help me to be thankful in all circumstances that You walk me through in this life. Help me to continually have gratitude upon my lips. Thank You for all You have done and all that You are doing. Amen.
Question: Are you practicing thankfulness today?
by Mike Woodard
Used by Permission
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