So many people are so burdened by what they want, and don't
have; rather than being thankful for what they have, that they never knew they
wanted! The more we complain, the less joy we experience each day. However, the
more we give thanks, even for the negative issues of life, the more we live in
peace and fulfillment.
This goes against our normal, human behavior. We almost
feel dishonest to say that we are fine when we know we have something negative
going on in our life. However, this earthly realm is not reality. Paul said it
best. We brought nothing into this world, and we will take nothing with us in
the end, so we can live in Godly contentment (1 Timothy 6:6-7).
In fact, giving God the first fruits of our time, love,
esteem and attention decreases our trials as it honors God with the praise that
is due His name (Psalm 69:30). God supplies all of our needs -
physically, emotionally, mentally, financially and spiritually (1 Timothy
6:8). This allows us to give thanks for anything life throws at us (1
Thessalonians 5:18).
As we view our trials as joyous opportunities to enjoy
intimacy with God, we watch His miraculous provision for us in and through
them. This allows patience to have time to perfect our soul - our mind, will
and emotions (James 1:2). Our faith grows during trials,
as we see God's mighty hand working all things out for our good (Romans
8:28). God is awesome, generous, full of loving kindness and the
best friend we will ever have.
Prayer:
Father God, our unity with Your Spirit will enable us to
hear Your voice to deal with lost glasses, what to fix for dinner, what to take
with us before we leave the house and how to witness to the crying lady sitting
across from us in the doctor's office. Just a few moments of refocusing in Your
presence will make all the difference in our positive attitude. Your
faithfulness is our measuring rod, and Your friendship means more to us than we
could ever express in words.
Thought for the Day:
What a privilege it is to live our days as a friend
of God, because this relationship brings so many benefits to our life; some are
even "out of this world"! -
John 15:14-15
