Give Thanks

Give thanks with a grateful heart.
Give thanks to the Holy One.
Give thanks because He’s given Jesus Christ, His Son.
And now let the weak say I am strong,
Let the poor say I am rich,
Because of what the Lord has done for us.
Give thanks.

It’s a simple chorus but it speaks of all that is important.  We have been given all we need for this life in Christ Jesus.  Though we may be weak in the world’s eyes, we are strong in heaven’s eyes.  Though we may be poor in the world’s eyes, we are rich in heaven’s eyes. 

I must remind myself daily: I can do this thing called life.  I have The Life in me.  I’m not living my own life.  I am to be living His.

I am The Way, The Truth, The Life.  No one comes to the Father except through Me.  ~John 14:16

For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God through faith.  ~Galatians 3:26

But may it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.  ~Galatians 6:14

Although the things of this world may not be mine, what have I lost?  I have real life – The Life – in me.  Jesus gives me strength to make it through the day.  He gives me riches beyond any earthly treasure.  I can rejoice in Him.  I can be thankful, in everything, because of Him.

Always be joyful.
Keep on praying.
No matter what happens, always be thankful,
for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

Be joyful.  Be thankful.  Always.  Did you catch how this happens?  The verse in the middle.  Keep on praying.

Be anxious for nothing,
but in everything
by prayer and supplication
with thanksgiving
Let your requests be made known to God. 
And the peace of God,
which surpasses all comprehension,
will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

As I keep on praying, bringing everything to Him, I will have peace that passes understanding. His peace will guard my heart and my mind, if I am in Him.

It takes discipline to live this life He has called us to live. He has given us everything we need that pertains to life and godliness, but we must remain diligent to apply these truths to our lives. It’s not magical. It doesn’t just happen. We are told to pray.

Pray always.

Pray always, about everything.

Pray always, about everything, with an attitude of thanksgiving.

Then peace will come.

I’ve been searching for peace recently.  My heart has been anxious.  My mind has been racing.  But, you know what?  I have not been diligent to apply these truths.  I know I am in Him.  But this life I am to live in Him, still requires diligent discipline.

I think it’s time I get to work.

How about you?

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OH…and what am I thankful for this year?  Actually, many things, but most especially, my blog family.   You people have changed my world.  I’ve needed you and you’ve been there for me.  Thank you.