Gratitude

All through Scripture the admonition to give thanks is prevalent. A companion of thanksgiving is praise, and God’s Word is loaded with encouragement to do this habitually. We recognize and identify what we are thankful for and then lift up and acknowledge what our Redeemer is doing and Who He is! The theme throughout is consistent in its instruction to practice gratefulness and praise. Our Creator knew that there was something quite powerful in this simple act of faith.

Don’t misunderstand! This action rarely changes our circumstances, but it does transform our perspective, displaying insight we could not view without the act of giving thanks. When we walk into a dark house everything looks eerie and threatening. However, as we begin to light up the house with a flip of the switch, the rooms are illuminated, casting a proper perspective upon what was moments before quite frightening. Nothing truly changed except our perspective. The light provided an avenue for us to view life more clearly. This light and outlook often arrive in the form of a grateful heart.

Let’s take the thought of light a step further. Even a pinpoint of light can bring comfort, decreasing the fear that lurks in the darkness. Praising Him who is able to penetrate the darkness is like grasping the hand of a loved one when we are scared. All of a sudden, the presence of another calms our nerves and restores balance. The cloud of despair is lifted as our soul sings and rises by giving honor to our Sustainer. As we often see with our Redeemer, He has designed a principle that when practiced will provide what we need to walk through difficult days. We will tether ourselves to being grateful and watch our faith grow.

The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.

John 1:4-5 (NLT)

(Excerpt taken from Daily Dose of Intention to be released soon)

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