Praise and Thanks

Praise the Lord!

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!
    His faithful love endures forever.

Psalm 106:1 NLT

Several years ago, my One Word for the year was Praise. It was a word I struggled with and had to grow into.

Praise felt like a big word for when really big things happen—those Oh Wow! times that remind me God is at work.

What I learned throughout the year, though, is that there is always something to praise and thank God for. Always.

It’s not just the extra special days that show me God is present. I learned to look for God in the ordinary moments as well.

That might look like

…a lower bill than expected.

…laughter in the midst of tears.

…an out-of-the-blue call or text that cheers me up.

…appreciation in a situation, despite setbacks.

…hanging out with loved ones.

…fresh raspberries growing in November.

I don’t know what your ordinary moment might be, but might you see in it a glimpse of God?

God’s love for us is unchanging and unending, generation after generation. He is strong and mighty, and His Word is trustworthy.

No matter what our day looks like, regardless of what we can see, or how we feel—God sees it all. He sees you and me, and He cares. More than we are able or can imagine, God cares.

Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness.
    Let the whole world know what he has done.

Search for the Lord and for his strength; continually seek him.
Remember the wonders he has performed, his miracles, and the rulings he has given…

Psalm 105:1, 4-5 NLT (bold mine)

Lord God, thank You for letting us see You in our everyday moments—both the good ones and the difficult ones. Please forgive us for the times we fail to acknowledge You…for the times we forget to praise You…and for the times we neglect to thank You. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Happy Thanksgiving!

In Christ,

Laura 

[Photo credit: K. Rath 2016]

Linking up with: #SmallWonder, #DreamTogether, #RaRaLinkup, #TellHisStory, Coffee for Your Heart, Grace & Truth