Thirsty for Thankfulness: Day #12

       Thirsty for Thankfulness: Day #12

How do we show thankfulness? How do we grow an attitude of gratitude? How do we know if we are "thirsty for thankfulness"?

A sure sign that we are "thirsty for thankfulness" is when we are too busy frantically rushing from one activity to the next without ever having moments to slow down, reflect, and give thanks for all of the blessings in our lives. Being "busy" is not a sign or status symbol of success; being booked up and busy just identifies us as, well, busy. I like to be active too, but I also have realized that many of the days I spent scurrying from one activity to the next, I had no time--I took no time--to offer thanks to God for all the blessings around me. (To be honest, I think I was oblivious to many of these blessings.)

David, described as a man after God's own heart, was an active warrior and ruler, but as is evident in the many Psalms attributed to him, David reflected on the work of God in his own life. 

Our routine: 
  • Sit down together. 
  • Enjoy the cup of blessing that can be provided by a good dose of Scripture. 
  • Stay and linger with our Creator as we reflect on our blessings as revealed in the words we read each day. 
  • Close with words of prayer to help deepen our relationship with Almighty God.
Scripture: 

Nehemiah 12:8
"For long ago, in the days of David and Asaph, there had been directors for the musicians and for the songs of praise and thanksgiving to God."

Psalm 23
~a psalm of David

"The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures, 
he leads me beside quiet waters, 
he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness 
for his name's sake. 
Even though I walk 
through the valley of the shadow of death, 
I will fear no evil 
for you are with me; 
your rod and your staff, 
they comfort me. 

You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies. 
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life, 
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever."




Reflection: 
Let's just sit quietly before Almighty God.
Let's think over the last 24 hours and the blessings that surrounded us during that time.
Let us acknowledge each of these blessings and give thanks for each and every one of them. 
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, Thank You for being Almighty. Thank You for being with us during the busy-ness of the day and in the quiet stillness. Help us to slow down and acknowledge You. Open our eyes, our minds, and our hearts to each of Your blessings in our lives. We praise You, Almighty God.  In Jesus' Name. Amen.

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