Theme: Thanks
I was listening to a podcast last week and heard something I wanted to pass along. For years, a man had made it a practice to pause every morning when he was outside, look around, take it all in, and say, "Thank you God for this day."
He then stopped for some reason. For most of his 40's he didn't do this. As he reflected back, he realized his life was not as good. So he started up again in the last few years. As he reflected over the recent years, he realized his life had gotten better. Now was it really life or his perspective on life that got better? I don't know for sure, but I think this simple practice is one to consider. Get outside, look around, take it all in, and say, "Thank you God for this day."
In a complex world, we need simple practices. I know stores are already putting up their Christmas displays, but please don't overlook Thanksgiving. As we approach a day focused on gratitude, we may want to consider this man's practice for ourselves. The picture above is from this morning as I paused, looked around, took it all in, and said, "Thank you God for this day."
Scripture: Colossians 4:2
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.
Prayer: Thanks
"Heavenly Father, thank you for your amazing power and work in our lives, thank you for your goodness and for your blessings over us. Thank you that you are able to bring hope through even the toughest of times, strengthening us for your purposes. Thank you for your great love and care. Thank you for your mercy and grace. Thank you that you are always with us and will never leave us. Thank you for your incredible sacrifice so that we might have freedom and life. Forgive us for when we don't thank you enough, for who you are, for all that you do, for all that you've given. Help us to set our eyes and our hearts on you afresh. Renew our spirits, fill us with your peace and joy. We love you and we need you, this day and every day. We give you praise and thanks, for You alone are worthy! In Jesus' Name, Amen."