Linda Buishas
Ralph Waldo Emerson beautifully expressed gratitude for everyday blessings, saying, “For each new morning with its light, for rest and shelter of the night, for health and food, for love and friends, for everything Thy goodness sends.” Even more heartfelt, he wrote, “For flowers that bloom about our feet; for tender grass, so fresh, so sweet; for song of bird, and hum of bee; for all things fair we hear or see, Father in heaven, we thank Thee!” These words remind us to give thanks for the many kindnesses of God that surround us daily.
Psalm 100:4 instructs us: “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him and bless His name.” Psalm 103:2 reminds us to never forget the multitude of God’s kindnesses towards us. Giving thanks helps us to have positive expectations for the future. Cherishing memories of God’s goodness helps us maintain a thankful heart and draws us closer to Him.
Philippians 4:6-7 instructs us, “Be anxious for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which surpasses understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ.” When we pray and sincerely thank God, we put our faith in Him by entrusting our needs to His care. This act of faith and gratitude brings about a supernatural peace, one that protects our hearts and minds from worry. No matter what difficulties arise in this fallen world, God’s goodness and faithfulness far outweigh anything the enemy may try to bring against us. Thanksgiving is an antidote for worry and fear and helps us shift our focus from our troubles to God’s goodness.
By thanking God for His blessings, we redirect our attention to the positive aspects of life. Even though the world is filled with problems, God’s goodness outweighs any challenges we face. Paul, despite enduring many hardships, referred to them as “light afflictions” compared to the eternal glory awaiting us (2 Corinthians 4:17–18). When we focus more on what God can do, rather than on what the devil is doing, we will be reminded of God’s promises for this life and the glorious eternity with Him that awaits us.
It is wise to humble ourselves and be thankful, knowing all good things are from God and not of ourselves. This will help us to draw closer to Him and there is no better place to be. “For every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows” (James 1:17 NIV)
Why not follow Charlie Brown’s advice: “What if today, we were just grateful for everything?” Considering all that Jesus has done for us, how could we not constantly enter His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: giving thanks to Him and blessing His Holy Name!