Give Thanks

“I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.” Psalm 9:1

As Christians, most of us acknowledge that everything we have comes from God, but how often do we stop to give thanks to him? At the end of the day, do you take time to say, "Thank you, heavenly Father, for giving me the gift of today? Do you ever physically or mentally go through your house and say to God, "everything in the house and the food in the cupboard and the cars in the driveway are gifts from you. Thank you for your gracious and generous provision"? When you give thanks at mealtime, is it a heartfelt expression of your gratitude to God for his continual provision of all your physical needs?

Two days ago in my daily devotion I wrote about how God desires us to Ask in accordance with His Will. Another aspect of prayer is giving thanks. Why should we give thanks? Because so often we take much for granted. Taking for granted all the temporal provisions and spiritual blessings that God has so richly bestowed on us. Ephesians 5:20 says, “Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Paul was saying we should be giving thanks to God always and for everything.

Thought For Today: As you read these words, take a moment and reflect, “at this moment, what am I thankful for? What comes to your mind? Your Health? Strength? Family? Our church? Take time now to thank God for what just came to your mind.

Today’s Prayer Focus: Take time to give thanks to God who is the giver of every good and perfect gift. Deo Volente.