DAY SIX - Invitation to Live Assured

Scripture~ Philippians 4:4-8 (New International Version)

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

My Lesson~ Last Sunday, Glenn was invited to preach at Bordentown Baptist Church. (What a wonderful group of folks gathered there.) The title of his sermon was, “The Power Of Persistent Gratitude”. I can’t help but think of Bella when I hear the word persistent. :) First thing in the morning, when I’m taking care of my Dad, she follows me right to his door and waits to be picked up and placed on his bed as I’m gathering my medical supplies. Nothing could stop her from running up to his face and kissing him good morning. If he laughs and pushes her away, she turns right back around and starts all over.  

I can only imagine what my life would be like if I were "Bella" persistent in having a grateful heart -- in everything, giving thanks to the Lord. During the service Glenn said something along the lines of, “Gratitude builds confidence and trust in God, the one in whom we are thankful to.” Hmm… that means I can’t be thankful without realizing there is Someone through whom all blessings flow. Today, this Thanksgiving Day, I want to not only acknowledge all the many ways I have been blessed, but see the hand of the Lord behind it all.    

Prayer~ Father, I am so very grateful for all that You are, all that You’ve done, and all that You’ve given. You indeed are trustworthy and true. Help me Lord, to be persistent in thanksgiving and to rejoice always in You, for You are near. I have all that I need.

Invitation~ Here’s my challenge; as scripture has said, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Then meditate on, “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

How will I practically apply this today?

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!