In light of this Thanksgiving season, people wrote various things they were thankful for on Twitter and FaceBook. Expressing thanks is a good practice. We ought to declare our gratitude more often. But thankfulness isn’t enough. Our grateful hearts should lead to joy and songs of praise.
“Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do” (Philippians 4:4-5, NLT).
We are to praise God in all situations, good or bad, hard spots or smooth. Whether we’re working or playing, all we do is an opportunity and blessing from God. If we commit everything to God, even our lives, he promises to forgive our past, guard our today, and take care of our tomorrows. No worries. No stress. Praise and obedient work is all we have for today. That’s something to be thankful for and joyful over, to sing praises about.
I could get so much done if I didn’t waste time with worry or stress. In an unforgettable manner, this little poem pointed out my un-thankful ways.
Build a little fence of trust
Around today;
Fill the space with loving work
And therein stay.
Look not through the protective rails
Upon tomorrow;
God will help you bear what comes
Of joy or sorrow.
Mary Butts ~Streams in the Desert, p. 435
May your Thanksgiving be full of gratitude, joy, and praise.
*image from photobucket.com
I’ll agree completely. Excepting one thing. Spontaneous praise and song.
You have never heard me sing.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Hi Jamie, your singing is exceptionally beautiful to at least One, and that is the only One that matters.
Sing LOUD.
Joyfilled Thanksgiving to you.
What an inspiring post, Robin. Thank you and a blessed Thanksgiving to you and your family.
Every day should be full of Thanksgiving by God’s children…thanks for a beautiful post!
Jean and Melissa, thank you. May you and yours have a joy-filled Thanksgiving.
Thanks Robin! Focusing on being thankful this month has been really good for me. Yet, I still find myself giving in to stress and worry. Thanks for the inspiration.
Hi, Jennifer.
I totally understand the stress and worry diminishing our gratitude. God’s message to me was to replace them with praise. Thank you for your transparency.
I breakout in song often. Unfortunately it’s not all Praise and Worship. Sometimes Lady Gaga sneaks in a catchy tune and it just pops out.
Thanks for the post