Ps 100:4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!

Thanksgiving to our God is a direct way to focus your heart and mind on all that God has done, and is doing in your world.  Thanksgiving is a choice to look out the window upon all the life God has brought to you. Thanksgiving is a pathway into the love and presence of God.  We enter His presence with thanksgiving, and His living room with praise. (Dave version of Ps. 100:4)

1 Thess. 5:18 Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Why does the Apostle Paul command us to give thanks in ALL circumstances?  You may not feel like being thankful after a lot of life’s circumstances. Just driving to work these days can be a nightmare. But, by choosing to trust and thank God in all circumstances we invite the love and care of God into our world. Thanksgiving reorients our souls to that which is always good, our loving God.  God is always at work for your good.  By giving thanks in the worst of circumstances, you lift your eyes to, and invite the redeeming work of your loving Father.

Thanksgiving is the pathway into hope, joy, protection, renewal and life. Thanksgiving is the pathway into the presence of Almighty God. Thank you Father for inviting each of into Your presence. 

Practice the Presence: Get alone. Set your timer for 5 minutes. Thank God without ceasing during these minutes.  Think of the big picture; your home, your family, your salvation….  Think of the details: your favorite food, the beautiful clouds, your child’s first words, your puppy….  Experience how lifting your eyes to the love of God can change your world.

Or: Ask a friend or spouse: “what are ten things you are thankful for?”  Create a conversation, and atmosphere of thankfulness and do it often.

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God.