11-26-19

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS

November 26, 2019

Scripture: Philippians 4:6-7

Don’t be anxious about anything; rather, bring up all of your requests to God in your prayers and petitions, along with giving thanks. Then the peace of God that exceeds all understanding will keep your hearts and minds safe in Christ Jesus. Thanks

Thought for the Day: Is “giving thanks” an afterthought for Paul? The phrase “along with” might create that perception, but I read it as a way of suggesting how our prayers and petitions should always have thanks alongside them. Gratitude is more than the words, “Thank you!” Gratitude is an attitude that shapes ones consciousness. It was the 19th century pastor, Henry Ward Beecher, who wrote: “The unthankful heart discovers no; but the thankful heart will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings.” Prayer that has gratitude woven into it creates a capacity to see the good, the blessings, the presence of God. It does not dismiss or invite us into denial when it comes to pain, injustice or grief. If anything, an attitude of gratitude allows us to face and deal with whatever might come our way.

Prayer: In the busyness of life, I too often forget to be thankful; I too often allow myself to think I am above gratitude; I too often claim incorrectly that I deserve everything I receive. Redirect my spirit, Lord God, that I might see the plethora of gifts that are offered to me. Amen.

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