Scripture
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 1:16-18)
Worship
"Goodness of God" by Bethel Music
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvSuGyJQ6oM
Devotional
As the world is experiencing incredible loss and disruption, it can be extremely difficult to hold onto a heart of thankfulness and gratitude. Our minds are quick to focus on the things that have been lost, rather than remembering the undeserved abundance that has been given.
In my own life, I’m often more prone to dwell on the loss of one thing, even while possessing a dozen other beautiful things that could inspire a posture of gratitude.
Grief is not inherently wrong. In fact, it is normal, and a healthy part of the process of loss. However, grief that continuously steals our gratitude over time becomes an erosive force in our pursuit of a healthy relationship with God. Although difficult to hold onto, the truth is that even in the midst of loss and suffering, we have much to be thankful for.
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” (James 1:17)
It can be difficult to know where to put our trust when everything around us seems to be changing. What was true about our economy two weeks ago is not necessarily true today. What was true about our schedules two weeks ago is not necessarily true today. Yet even in the chaos of our changing world, God’s character has not changed. His economy is not at risk. His plans are not thwarted. He is still present, he is still good, and he is still providing for us.
Hold onto the truth today that you have a loving and generous Father that longs to take care of you. Difficult circumstances are not a reflection of his love for you. He is inviting you to turn towards him today, and to experience the comfort and stability that come from trusting in a generous God.
Where will you choose to focus your attention today? Will you let these challenging days pull you away from God’s goodness, or will you lean into him and experience his love and presence even now?
As you move into a time of guided prayer, seek to grow in gratitude in the presence of your loving God who gives good gifts even in the midst of a pandemic.
Guided Prayer
- Find a journal or notebook and write down some things you are thankful for in this season. What has he blessed you with in the past few days? What has he blessed you with in the past year? Can you think of a time where God provided for you in an unexpected and generous way?
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.” (Psalm 103:2)
- Give thanks. Thank God for all the things you just wrote down. Thank him for his continued faithfulness even in the midst of the struggle.
“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19 )
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” (1 Chronicles 16:34)
- Ask God to make his presence known to you today. Not only does God provide us with the physical things we need, but also blesses us with his presence. Ask him to draw near to you today.
Go
One way to cultivate gratitude is through generosity. As we look to the needs of others, we recognize how much that we’ve been given. Ask God to bring someone to mind that may be in need of encouragement or support today. How can you show God’s provision and faithfulness to those that may need it? Is there someone you can talk with on the phone or schedule a Zoom call with? Is there a neighbor that may need some of your extra supplies? Does your spouse need a break from watching the children? Let’s show our gratitude for God’s blessings by being generous with others.
Resources
For more resources like this from First15, check out this free download, Peace: Finding Rest in a Stressed-Out World.
*This content has been adapted from a First15 Devotional Series by Craig Denison / First15 (View Website)
