Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Thanksgiving in Advent

The "T" of the ACTS prayer acrostic (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication), giving thanks, is never out of season and packs benefits of its own.

At any season, taking time to look for things to be thankful for miraculously shifts your perspective. Though your income may be choking or your health questionable, thanksgiving is a choice that flips your surroundings right side up. Fault finding stands us on our heads seeing all that could potentially bring discomfort or even terrorize us.
During Advent, and any other season, giving God thanks seems to release that pressure and stand us on our feet again. Thanksgiving refocusses us on the big picture in which our kind and merciful heavenly Father daily provides for our needs.

"Praise the Lord, God our Savior, who helps us every day" (Psalm 68:19, NCV). "Praise the Lord; praise God our savior! For each day he carries us in his arms" (Psalm 68:19, NLT).

God is our Savior --ready to help us as we call. Immanuel, "God with us," enjoys our gratitude, rewarding us with a happier heart and feet replanted and on the ground.



FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION

When pressure has you thinking only about your problems, will you choose to give thanks for the good gifts your Savior gives you?

What will it take for you to flip right side up?

2 comments:

Unknown said...

I have been dwelling in that upside down place since my visit to Texas. I don't even know sometimes if I want to get right-side up, but you are blessedly able to point out a direction that makes it comfortable in taking the next step (whether I am inclined or not)! Thanksgiving has crept into my consciousness since my flight home---and here it is again! I think my dear God is speaking!
Blessings to you - every moment - this season and always.

Paula Gast said...

And to you! Especially as you celebrate in a time of lots of change. May the peace of Christ keep your heart and mind.
... Tell you what: Jesus made the "Body" because He knew we'd need each other and need to stay connected to Him.
I've been thinking of you all. Praying Romans 8:28.