“…in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:18
This time of year is my favorite. It’s the cooler weather, the crackling fires, the fellowship with family and friends, and anticipation.
Do you have things or events that you are looking forward to? Things that you are anticipating that give your heart joy?
Are there some who, when looking ahead, have a pause or even concern? Things that you know are on the horizon, and they give you a sense of anxiety.
How are we to respond in those situations? How are we to look ahead?
Many answers, to be sure, may be given. I’ll provide one.
Gratitude.
I often find that gratitude levels and balances my inconsistent feelings in the fog of circumstances and the winds of unwieldy situations.
As it turns out, as this article is being written, while listening to a fire crackle and overhearing two godly men visit about God’s Word, I feel a profound sense of gratitude.
One of the men quoted:
“God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change
And though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea.” –Psalm 46:1-2
He expressed his amazement at God’s Word and testified that the Lord does provide.
Gratitude.
The logic from Psalm 46…
- God is our strength.
- God is our help in trouble.
- Therefore, we can anticipate with confidence.
Grounding gratitude in the character of God enables us to walk in faith without fear.
— November 16, 2023