Thanksgiving: the Attitude of Gratitude that makes all of life a Beatitude!

For several years I’ve daily offered this prayer: “Lord, you have given me so many things, give me one more thing; give me a thankful heart!” Psalm 100 is aptly called the Thanksgiving Psalm as it highlights gratitude as the attitude with which we approach God. We “from all lands,” once lost, are now found and welcomed into his presence! (v.1) We are exhorted to come. know, bless and show… gratitude in our soul and gladness in our service (v.2). This literary masterpiece is grounded in and stems out of God’s attributes – His goodness created us and grace recreated us as “his people” and “sheep of his care”! (v.3, 5)

And Can It Be?… a move of God; my defining moment!

A favorite hymn and each time I sing, And Can It Be… I put on “the garment of praise for a spirit of heaviness!” (Isa. 61:3). The Psalmist (150:2) exhorts us to praise God for his excellent greatness (worth) and mighty deeds (works). Here’s a useful exercise that will help us be and do all what God wants. Write down: (1). An attribute of God that causes you to adore him (2). One thing God did for you that makes you want to do anything for him (3). If God assures you favor and success, what one thing will you ask and see yourself doing for him?