Published 5/24/19
Read 1 Chronicles 16:34
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!
Reflect
• Do you worship God with your prayers?
• What are some of the ways that God has blessed you?
• What are some of the things you are thankful for? How do you express them to God? (Please explain.)
Worship. Praise. Thanksgiving. These words can mean so many different things to different people. But the essence of worshipping God and praying with a thankful heart involves praise. Sometimes, our prayers may only focus on recognizing and remembering what God has done for us. Expressing our love and adoration for the Lord is one way of thanking our Creator for the many blessings in our lives. Shout, sing, clap, cry, laugh, jump, and dance before the Lord. Don't be afraid of showing your joyful emotion as you celebrate God. The Bible is filled with many examples. Here are a few highlights:
Luke 11:2: In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus instructs his disciples to praise God: "When you pray, say: 'Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name ...' "
Luke 18:43: The blind man who was healed by Jesus is described as "glorifying God." And all the people who witnessed the miracle "gave praise to God." They prayed prayers of thanksgiving.
John 11:41: As Jesus stands outside the tomb of Lazarus, moments before he raises his friend from the dead, the Lord looks up and says, "Father, I thank You that You have heard Me."
Pray
Lord, Jesus, I praise You and love You. Thank you for the countless ways that You have blessed me. Amen.