praise
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV
Thankfulness is the natural outpour of a heart attune to God. It keeps our eyes fixed on the future joy we have with Christ.
Why is this God’s will for our lives? Paul’s exhortation can seem impossible in times of distress or great loss.
However, the verse says we are to give thanks in all circumstances, not for all circumstances. Gratitude expresses our trust in God. It may not always remove the obstacle, but it reminds us that God is with us, and we are inseparable from His love. (Ro 8:38-39)
In truth, it’s all about perspective. Consider the life of Hannah in 1 Samuel 1-2 — a barren woman who dreamed of having a child, had every reason to be bitter, and yet she remained wholly devoted to the Lord. Her affection was never tied to whether God answered her prayer, but was securely attached to who she knew God to be.
The lens in which we view God will determine our desire to give thanks in everything.
Start your day with praise, giving thanks to God first thing in the morning.
Go for a walk and witness God’s beautiful creation!
Let praise be the ‘new normal,’ as our hearts exult in God.
Even if you don’t have it in you today, Psalm 50:14 encourages us to offer thanksgiving as a sacrifice, bringing honor and glory to His name. (Ps 50:23)
Awaken your senses to the grand narrative we are all perfectly woven into. No matter what happens, we have the full assurance of hope and eternity with Jesus. Our questions and prayers may go unanswered, but it’s in these times we can draw nearer to God and really come to know Him.
Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls. (1 Pet 1:8-9)
Practice:
Turn to scripture this week with the knowledge that God is working all things together for your good. Psalm 57, 92, 95, 100, 107, 136 — all psalms declaring praise to God. Allow the psalms to form your prayers and pursuit of the Lord.
Reflect on God’s provision, answered prayers, the people in your life. Thank Him for the little things, the things easily taken for granted— your bed, hot water, food in the pantry, the encouragement from a friend or the show that made you laugh.
What does this teach you about God?
What does this teach you about yourself?
How does praise connect your life to loving God and loving your neighbor?
centering prayer
Jesus, may I live to glorify Your name.
