DAILY DEVOTIONAL FROM PASTOR WESLEY March 23, 2021

The Benefits of Gratitude

Oh, give thanks to the LORD, call upon His name; Make known His deeds among the peoples. Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; Speak of all His wonders. Glory in His holy name; Let the heart of those who seek the LORD be glad. Seek the LORD and His strength; Seek His face continually. Remember His wonders which He has done, His marvels and the judgments uttered by His mouth, Psalm 105:1-5

Thanking God glorifies and magnifies Him, but did you know doing so also benefits us? The Lord doesn’t need our gratitude, but as we give thanks, we become less selfish and more confident in God’s character. Expressing gratefulness …

• Refocuses our attention. Life is filled with distractions that can make it harder to notice all God has done for us. Instead of living with the weight of the world on our shoulders, it’s good to try refocusing on the Lord by thanking Him for His faithfulness.

• Relieves our anxiety. Many people in our society live with constant apprehension. But when we bring our concerns to the Lord with thanksgiving, the burden shifts to Him, and His peace comes to us (Philippians 4:6-7).

• Refreshes our relationship. Gratitude keeps us from thinking that the Christian walk is all about us and our needs. Our fellowship with God is enhanced when we focus on Him.

• Reinforces our faith. Thanksgiving helps us dig ourselves out of the pit of discouragement and strengthens us spiritually.

When you’re overwhelmed, thanking God is probably not on your radar. But I’ve learned from experience that acknowledging all the Lord has done is a sure way to change attitudes and re-energize.

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