Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me. Psalm 103:2 (AMPC)
Parents love their children’s little expressions of thanks: a little homemade card and a big hug with a “Thank you Mommy and Daddy!” It melts their hearts when their kids show them appreciation. But have you ever noticed what being grateful does for them? Their eyes light up and they seem to bubble over with love. They are so excited to give their little gift and they seem to get back more than they give.
God loves our thanks, but when we thank Him, we benefit. Our hearts open up to His love in an expansive way and we become more aware of the blessings and opportunities all around us.
When you read Psalm 100:4, it teaches that thankfulness is the entranceway into God’s presence. The Message Bible puts it this way: Enter with the password: ‘Thank you!’
When we are thankful, we experience a deeper connection with God which leads to greater joy and peace.
Philippians 4:6 tells us not to worry about anything. Instead, it says make your wants known to God, and do it with thanksgiving (AMPC). When you involve God in your crisis with an attitude of gratitude, it says that His peace will be like a guard mounted over your heart—a peace that surpasses what’s normal in your situation.
When the circumstances warrant panic, you will be calm, cool, and empowered to handle anything that comes your way.