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“For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving,  for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.” I Timothy 4:4-5 (ESV)

“End each day telling God thank you,” greets me each time I come into my kitchen.  This pretty little magnet on my fridge jogs my memory of all the endless ways God has blessed my life.  I would love to say I don’t need this reminder….but that sweet friends would not be true.  In this multi-tasking, chaotic world, our hearts and minds can easily become consumed with what’s not good and overlook the beauty of God’s faithfulness.

I’ve glimpsed and captured many beautiful sunrises and sunsets at the beach – but this week, I almost missed the one right out my window.  Beautiful oranges blending into still darkness as the sun began to rise and glisten against the cold Autumn morn.  Hues of purple and deep midnight filling up the space between empty trees offering us a quiet awe as the sun sets. Incredible beauties, and I didn’t even have to leave home to capture it – gloriously on display by our Creator God.

Any 24/7 can unveil a gratitude easily overlooked.  A smile when we need it the most.  Help from a co-worker when overload drowns us.  A kind word when least expected.  The prayer answered breathed at early dawn unfolding ever so sweetly. Extraordinary provisions.  Exceptional delays strategically guiding us in the right direction at the right time. The no which seemed so unfair definitively protecting us from the unseens.  The yes we simply couldn’t believe would ever be possible.  The darkest hour of our soul birthing the everlasting joy of God’s presence.  Quiet, reflective moments drinking deep of the love surrounding us.

November ushers in turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie and gratitude as we gather around our table with family and friends.  Counting our blessings flows effortlessly.  Each one sharing their joys and the gratefulness of their hearts – eager to offer thanks.

Found it interesting that Webster defines gratitude as a feeling – a feeling of appreciation.  Wow just keeping it real here but our feelings ebb and flow.  Up one minute and down the next.  Grateful today and not so grateful tomorrow.

True gratitude as defined in the Greek speaks deeply to my soul –  giving thanks – a gratitude which blossoms in the realm of grace.  No fluctuating feelings here today and gone tomorrow.  A settled grace acknowledging the Giver of all things.  Steady, consistent and overflowing from hearts lifted up in adoration of the One true God who showers us with His neverending, lavish grace.

So sweet friends, how will we end each day – not just Thanksgiving Day, but all the days inbetween? Moments when the sun shines bright and all is well.  Moments when darkness overshadows and joy is depleted.

Let’s choose to end each day by telling our gracious God thank you – expressing true gratitude from hearts hopelessly in love with the One whose very presence births thankfulness.

“Father, ignite our hearts with thankfulness and gratitude. Help us to never forget all the ways You have blessed our lives with the sweetness of Your presence.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life