How Are Expressions of Gratitude Helpful?

Jesus was consistent in warning us that the future is unpredictable. The economy is subject to change, and the political climate will not always be to our liking. The value of wealth can diminish without warning, yet in Matthew 6:34 Jesus tell us not to worry about tomorrow for it will present worries of its own.

There is no way to entirely control the future. Still, we as human beings need to be assured that life as we know it will continue undisturbed. Predictable change prompts us to rediscover gratitude and thanksgiving as we realize God’s provision and protection continue as we place our trust in him.

Expressions of gratitude should be permanent in our consciousness. Listen to this reminder. “Give thanks to the Lord. Remember the wonders he has done and his miracles. Sing praises to him and tell of his wonderful acts.” Thanksgiving diminishes fear and anxiety as we focus consistently on his love, his mercy and goodness. 

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Tell the heavens and the earth to celebrate and sing; command every mountain to join in the song. The Lord’s people have suffered, but he has shown mercy and given them comfort.

~Isaiah 49:13 Contemporary English Version

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Allow Obstacles to Build Your Faith - Part 2

Numbers 22 presents the story of Balaam and his donkey. It conveys a godly lesson for us. Balaam believed God was the only true God but used his God-given skills to satisfy his monetary greed. The king of Moab persuaded him to put a curse on the Hebrew people and, if successful, he’d be rich.

Balaam became so blinded by temptation, he could not understand that the obstructions God placed before him were designed for his good. For monetary security and short-lived glory, he was willing to disregard God's will. To what extent is God willing to go, to prevent you from doing something destructive to yourself and others?

Balaam's donkey tried to stop him. She turned off the road onto a field, lay down on the ground and ran into a wall, crushing his foot. Balaam continued beating his donkey, even as the angel of God blocked her way. This clearly demonstrates God’s attempt to reach us as well as our determination to resist God’s love and protection.  

Facing the Giants of Life - Part 2

In life’s journey, cruel, bad things happen to good people because evil exists in the hearts and minds of those whose mission is to harm others. Justifiable punishment is right for those who perpetrate evil on the undeserving. Blaming others for our lack of achievement and failing to be accountable is often a defense for lack of courage and faith.

The majority of the men whom Moses sent to survey the land God promised believed Israel was incapable of taking it from the giants who possessed it. Listen to their exaggerated analysis. "The people living there are powerful giants and their cities are fortified and well defended." They believed God was incapable helping them, so they exaggerated the obstructions.

They blamed God for placing impossible barriers in their way and believed death awaited them if they engaged the giants who possess the land. They failed to trust in God's provision and protection. Whatever you’re facing, believe "you can do all things through Christ who will empower you to do what appears impossible."