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Psalm 100:4
Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name. |
Sometimes I have to remind myself to give thanks. I love the Lord and I know that He loves me. If I am honest, there are times when I don’t always do the best job of letting Him know I am thankful. This verse reminds me that thanksgiving is the key which unlocks the gate to the door of His presence. When life gets too busy and I am feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or even alone, I am learning to ask myself “have I given thanks?" More often than not, the answer is "no". It’s amazing how simple life can be when we truly adhere to God’s Word.
I love the outdoors and backpacking. It allows me to step away from the busyness of life. There is something about immersing myself in the beauty of nature and seeing His handiwork that refreshes my soul. Isaiah 55:12 says, "The mountains and hills will burst into song, and the trees of the field will clap their hands!" Only after the noise of life's distractions fade are we able to hear the rustle of the leaves blowing in the wind as they clap with praise.
Every time I return home after being in the wilderness for a few days, I always feel a little more thankful than when I left. The blessings I often take for granted become more visible. My bed is more comfortable. The simple pleasures of clean running water and a hot meal not only refresh my body, but also nurture my soul. My situation may not change, but my perspective always does. Perhaps this is one of the many beautiful things found in praising His name. It is in the courts of His presence that His abundant provision and blessings become easily seen.
Father, thank you for being such a gracious God! Thank you for knowing exactly what we need even before we ask for it. Thank you for the privilege to praise you, and please forgive us in those moments when we don't. Help us to become more like you in everything we do. We love you Lord. Amen.
I love the outdoors and backpacking. It allows me to step away from the busyness of life. There is something about immersing myself in the beauty of nature and seeing His handiwork that refreshes my soul. Isaiah 55:12 says, "The mountains and hills will burst into song, and the trees of the field will clap their hands!" Only after the noise of life's distractions fade are we able to hear the rustle of the leaves blowing in the wind as they clap with praise.
Every time I return home after being in the wilderness for a few days, I always feel a little more thankful than when I left. The blessings I often take for granted become more visible. My bed is more comfortable. The simple pleasures of clean running water and a hot meal not only refresh my body, but also nurture my soul. My situation may not change, but my perspective always does. Perhaps this is one of the many beautiful things found in praising His name. It is in the courts of His presence that His abundant provision and blessings become easily seen.
Father, thank you for being such a gracious God! Thank you for knowing exactly what we need even before we ask for it. Thank you for the privilege to praise you, and please forgive us in those moments when we don't. Help us to become more like you in everything we do. We love you Lord. Amen.