~a few thoughts on gratitude that have spurred my heart on towards Thanksgiving…

Giving thanks encourages a posture of humility…

I am a recipient.  When I say thank you, I remind myself over and over again that I am the receiver and not the reason for all that I have and all that I am.

Giving thanks is an expression of trust…

All that is given, each circumstance faced, or even endured, comes from His hand for His purposes.  When I say thank you, I stop seeing myself as a victim and instead see the great honor and privilege of my position – esteemed and cradled in the hand of the sovereign God.

Giving thanks is a declaration of value and worth…

God’s workings in my life – down to the smallest details of every good and perfect gift He gives each day - matter!  They are perfect investments, wisely given.  When I say thank you, I am recognizing the value of each gift and the great worth of the Giver.

“Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours.  Yours, O Lord is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all.  Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things.  In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.  Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.” (1 Chronicles 29:11-13)

photo:  our garland of thanks and praise