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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Join Hands and Celebrate God's Good Gifts

Throughout history mankind has devised ways to celebrate life. Douglas Jerrold, the British playwright, humorously said of the English people, “If an earthquake were to swallow up our property tomorrow, my people would meet and dine somewhere in the rubbish to celebrate the event.” God is especially honored when we celebrate his intervention in our lives.

When I was in the military, I attended a church whose mission was to provide a home for young men and women serving their country. At the close of our Bible study, we would join hands and celebrate by singing, “Blest be the tie that binds our hearts in Christian love. The fellowship of kindred minds is like to that above.”

Jesus in Matthew 5:12 commands us to “rejoice and be glad” even in difficult, hard times. You can do this seemingly impossible task by staying focused on the Lord God, who gives more than life itself. “For my God shall supply your every need according to the riches of his glory by Christ Jesus.”  

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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

Let your hope keep you joyful, be patient in your troubles, and pray at all times.

~Romans 12:12 Good News Bible