Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thess. 5:18 (ESV) And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Col. 3:17 (NIV)
One of them (one of the lepers), when he saw that he was healed, came back to Jesus, shouting, “Praise God!” He fell to the ground at Jesus’ feet, thanking him for what he had done. This man was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, ”Didn’t I heal ten men? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?” Luke 17:15-15 (NLT)
Dear Lord Jesus, I want to be more like the healed Samaritan leper that came back to you shouting, “Praise God!” Indeed, I want my whole being to yell with thanks, for all the blessings and benefits I have from knowing you. The heck with measured, polite, or mile-mannered appreciation—I want to overflow with gratitude.
As Creator and Sustainer, Jesus, I bless you for every good thing you have given (and give) me: Food and clothing, shelter and a bed; lungs and breath, a vocation and vacations; medical care and money to spend, a family to love and friends galore; fish to catch and bread to share. And the list goes on and on.
As Savior and Redeemer, Jesus, I adore you for living in my place and dying in my place; for sins forgiven and righteousness given; for victory over death and grace for life; for your steadfast love and daily mercies; for citizenship in heaven and a place in your kingdom; for the hope of glory and the glory of the gospel… just to name a few!
As Lord and King, Jesus, I trust (and thank you) for being at work in all my circumstances—for your glory and my good. You have my hairs and days numbered; you are the author and perfecter of my faith; you bottle my tears and will redeem my pain; you give and you take away (blessed be your name); you humble me that you might gladden me; you discipline me that I might delight in you. Hallelujah what a Savior; Hallelujah what a salvation! Should I be shouting grateful? More than I can possibly show. So very Amen I pray, in your merciful and mighty name.
