“Oh, that men would give thanks to the LORD for His goodness, And for His wonderful works to the children of men! For He satisfies the longing soul, And fills the hungry soul with goodness.” Psalm 107:8-9
Wow. I’m overwhelmed and so encouraged by this outpouring of love! I’m also very grateful for the lessons learned along the way. One word could sum up the lessons – THANKFULNESS. My heart has been convicted over the last month about being thankful.
J and I have gone through some trials, pain and challenges that have us in a season of waiting on the Lord. From waiting for children to waiting for a house to waiting for answers to some recent uncertainties. We bring these requests before the Lord and His answer has been “no” or “wait” so far. But He has given us so many blessings, so much kindness.
He is patient and loving toward us. He has faithfully and graciously provided for our needs. He has not forsaken us. He has brought encouragement and sweet fellowship. He has SAVED US! We have nothing to complain about. But I sometimes find myself thinking, “thanks for that blessing, Lord,….but that’s not what I asked for. Could you answer my prayer now?” Isn’t that wicked? From day 1 of the 30 Days my heart has been challenged to receive ALL of my Father’s gifts with thankfulness…none are deserved, after all. He may be asking us to wait, but He is showering His love on us every single day. I want to learn to SAVOR His daily blessings and bring my requests to Him with thankfulness.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6
If seeing God’s daily kindnesses isn’t enough to motivate thankfulness, the following description of unrighteous men should be…
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. For although they knew God, THEY DID NOT HONOR HIM AS GOD OR GIVE THANKS TO HIM, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things. Romans 1:19-23 (emphasis added)
Right? Ouch. Praying for a heart that recognizes God’s goodness both in the valley and on the mountain and responds with gratefulness!
So thank YOU friends who showered us with kindness over the last 30 days. You have ministered to us more than you can know.
