“We would worry less if we praised more. Thanksgiving is the enemy of discontent and dissatisfaction.” - H. A. Ironside
An attitude of gratitude not only helps appreciate the things at hand but also prepares way for greater things ahead. Thankfulness has an effect of brightening up any unhappy days. A thankful heart is a great possession a person could have.
Psalmist David says: “I will praise the name of God with a song, And will magnify Him with thanksgiving.” - Psalms 69:30
In David’s life we see that though he got anointed at a very young age, he had to live through very conflicting environment. His father didn’t feel that it was important to invite him to the family gathering, his brothers rejected him, he had to be out in the field with wild animals, protecting his sheep. Though he slayed the giant Goliath and saved an entire nation, he had to run away fearing for his life, away from the jealous king Saul. But through it all, one thing that he was consistent in doing was playing his harp and giving thanks and praising God. The psalms he wrote bring comfort and deep encouragement, divinely touching people’s heart and exhorting them to worship God.
In the lineage of King David the worshipper, Jesus the promised Messiah came to this world. Jesus though He is the son of God, throughout His earthly life constantly gave thanks to the Heavenly Father, who is the giver of all good things. On the cross Jesus purchased our salvation through His sacrifice, which is the greatest blessing of all that we are eternally grateful for!
When injustice, unrest, chaos and unfairness are the daily reports in the news, the natural and easy response can be to worry and be fearful. As the world around us gives us plenty of reasons to feel discouraged and be discontent, it takes effort to stay grateful and not to take things for granted. Thankfulness in our heart helps us to reflect on things in a positive light and to soar over all the negative things around us.
“15 Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.” - Hebrews 13:15
As we look at the many blessings and daily benefits that we enjoy, let’s not forget to thank God. And even if sometimes it may feel like a sacrifice of praise, let’s remember to give thanks. May the grace of our Lord fill our hearts today and enable us to be thanks-givers not just during a season but everyday! God bless you!
