James 1:17 [AMP]
Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above; it comes down from the Father of lights [the Creator and Sustainer of the heavens], in whom there is no variation [no rising or setting] or shadow cast by His turning [for He is perfect and never changes].
REFLECTION
While wading through the gritty realities of everyday life, I sometimes forget that it is more blessed to give than it is to receive (Acts 20:35). Especially when we intentionally give thanks to our Creator. Every time I choose to give thanks (instead of complain), gratitude is cultivated and becomes a gateway to joy. While it’s wise to be aware of and deal with issues, complaining keeps us chained to problems, but gratitude to God (irrespective of our situation) is an expression of trust and frees us to see possibilities.
Giving can take many forms and is an expression of love, be it a prayer for someone else or a sincere compliment. Even confrontation or a stern warning can be a form of giving, when done in love. Showing up, as promised, to be there for someone else (despite how we may feel), is a beautiful kind of sacrificial giving. Giving a sincere smile is a wonderful way to give encouragement without saying a word. Forgiving ourselves and forgiving others, is vital to keep us bitter-free. Consequences will take its course, but forgiveness is essential if we want to deeply learn from mistakes and truly transform. We are all on an ongoing learning curve, and gratitude keeps us in a hopeful, faith-full, solutions orientated, generous state-of-mind.
So let’s give thanks with the rising of the sun, and infuse our thoughts and words with gratitude, mindful that every good gift comes from our marvellous Maker.
PRAYER POEM: Thank You
Our caring Creator ~ thank You that with You we can be real
about how we feel, and that You help us deal with
whatever You reveal.
You are forever faithful, trustworthy and true in all that
You do ~ help us more deeply trust in You.
