Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Each of us need to remember, everyday, to be thankful for what we have, for what God has provided for us. Yes, in today's world we need quite a few things that maybe considered necessities, but to some they would be considered luxuries. We need electricity to do just about everything, and yes, running water makes our lives easier, to the point it has become a necessity. But we need to thank God each and every morning for the new day, for allowing us to be part of all his glory today. We may not be able to enjoy the comforts that have been afforded us everyday, but we still need to thank God for providing us the means and the provisions.
You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
2 Corinthians 9:11
Just as we should be thanking God for all he has done for us, all he has provided for us, all the blessings he has given us, no matter how small they may seem, we need to remember to be a blessing to others. We usually do not think too much about it until there is a crisis or a catastrophe, then everyone wants to help out, which is an amazing sight to see. But what about the everyday struggles some people are facing. We may be inconvenienced when the power goes out or we can't make a cup of coffee, but what about that person who doesn't have a place to sleep at night, or can't afford a cup of coffee. You may not be in a place where you think you can't make a difference, but you would be surprised what that spare change in your car could do for that person on the street corner, or those clothes hanging in your closet you haven't worn in years, could do for that struggling family who can't afford clothes or shoes. Maybe you don't have anything to give, but do you have some time you can spare? Volunteer at a soup kitchen or a homeless shelter, or a retirement home, or a hospital children's ward. Your time can be even more valuable than any material item.
Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 5:20
As Christians, we need to be thankful for all things, all circumstances, all blessings. And we need to remember that saying thanks is not quite the same as giving thanks. Be a blessing not only to yourself and your family and friends, but to everyone you meet.
As I speak a blessing over each of you this morning, always remember, I am here for you if you ever need to talk or get something off your chest or if you need prayer for yourselves, your family or your friends. Please do not hesitate to send me a message.
May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Dear Father God, thank you for blessing us with this day and loving us as Your children. Watch over each and every one of us as we start each day, as we go through this week, keeping us in the palm of Your hand. Guide us in our daily lives, directing us on the path You have planned for us, bringing forth the dreams you have planted in each of our hearts. For we know who we are and whose we are, children of the most high God. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
"Keep your Faith strong, your Hope alive and your Prayers never ending."
God Bless
Pastor Mark
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