From Acknowledgment to Adoration: A Life Infused with Joyful Thanksgiving
Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, [and] into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, [and] bless his name.
(Psalm 100:2,4)
Recently, I had the pleasure of spending a delightful day of laughter and joy with my grandchildren. As I dropped them off at home, we lingered in the car, engaged in heartfelt conversation. In that tender moment, as they bid me farewell with hugs and kisses, I witnessed a beautiful display of joyful thanksgiving. Though their gratitude remained unspoken, the radiant joy on their faces and the warmth in their voices spoke volumes.
This infectious joy, born out of sincere thanksgiving, serves as a poignant reminder of how we should approach our relationship with God. The Psalms often echo the encouragement to express gladness and joy in thanksgiving and praise to the Almighty.
Psalm 100, though brief, serves as a wellspring of inspiration for both individual and collective worship. Each time I read its words, a genuine smile graces my face, and I hope the same happens for you. This psalm not only teaches us how to express our gratitude but also provides reasons why we should do so.
In Psalm 100:3 (KJV), we are reminded, "Know ye that the LORD he [is] God: [it is] he [that] hath made us, and not we ourselves; [we are] his people, and the sheep of his pasture." The acknowledgment that the Lord is our Creator is reason enough for joyful thanksgiving. He not only formed us but cares for us, guiding us along the right paths like a loving shepherd tends to his flock.
Our Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, leads and provides for us, not only in material aspects but also in matters of the spirit. Because of His goodness and who He is, our approach to Him should be one of joyful thanksgiving. We are called to make joyful noises, sing, and bless His name, serving Him with gladness from the depths of our hearts.
Let us carry the spirit of joyful thanksgiving beyond this moment. May our lives be a continuous offering of gratitude, recognizing the goodness of our Creator and the loving care of our Shepherd. As we approach God with joy, may our praises be a sweet melody that resonates in our hearts and beyond, declaring His greatness and our unwavering gratitude.
Learn how to overcome this world.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Today, I come before you, Lord, with joy in my heart, grateful for your mercy and loving kindness that continually shower upon me. I thank you for tending to me, guiding me, and ensuring my safety in your pastures. Let praises rise from my lips to honor you, my Creator and my God. May this act of worship not be a chore but a genuine expression of my heartfelt desire to serve you with gladness.
In the name of Christ Jesus, I pray, Amen.
