Psalm 6:3-4,
“So here I am in the place of worship, eyes open, drinking in your strength and glory. In your generous love I am really living at last! My lips brim praises like fountains. I bless you every time I take a breath; My arms wave like banners of praise to you.”
I’ve noticed that I can complain a lot. I’ll fast and pray for something, get it, and then whine about the work that it takes to maintain it. Many times I’ll even move on to asking for something else. In reflection, I’ve taken a step back to consider how God feels when I do this. I know that I get an attitude when I feel that someone is ungrateful for something I’ve done for them…so how does God feel? What does He think of me? Honestly, I’ve had to repent for being such a spoiled brat.
When is the last time you just stopped and thought about all that God has done for you? We often get so wrapped up into praying for what we perceive as “big blessings” (house, car, spouse, money, etc.), that blessings like life, health, transportation, provision, and mercy become common to us. Don’t allow the blessings of God to become common to you. Remain grateful. Shout of his goodness. Give Him a reason to continue blessing you.
This holiday season, remember who we worship and why we worship Him. Because of His ultimate sacrifice of His life in exchange for our sins, we are to be forever grateful.
-Brianna R.
Oh, God where do I begin?
First of all, I thank God for allowing me to persevere throughout this past year in my right mind and good health. God has allowed me to shatter many of the shackles that were placed upon my family. I have received my college degree, and working on another, I have a non-profit organization that is simply humbling, and I have established an amazing foundation within my church home. God has used me to discharge life and prosperity BACK into my family, and I am just GRATEFUL. I would be selfish to not praise a God who deserves that and much more. I am continuously being strengthened by a Father who ALWAYS knew His plans for me and kept every word. I am grateful for the mind to want to live and actively go out for Christ.
Even when the enemy thinks he has me, my God ALWAYS shows up and shows out. Christ has opened the doors that have been CHAINED shut for so many generations. He has allowed my SIBILINGS, our children and their children to come, and receive the opportunity to go above and BEYOND. I am a proud vessel of God and I want to thank Him for allowing me to share so many accomplishments with friends and loved ones! I am thankful for great friends and a support system that I could have never imagined. I am grateful for the people who are in my life now and those who were seasonal. I am thankful for being able to know the difference as I continue to grow.
As I think back over my life, I have to say that I am truly blessed. I am so undeserving and I fall short of His glory daily. Yeah, I understand that this is the holiday season and many people are in a thankful spirit, but I am so grateful to be at this exact place in my life. I could list infinite things that are tangible, but honestly, I am simply appreciative for life…His life. The ultimate sacrifice. What are you thankful for?
-Mo'Nique Bailey