A life filled with thanksgiving is a life filled with peace … that’s why we should be thankful! God’s Word commands us to devote ourselves to prayer and to be watchful and thankful.¹ This means we are to be LOOKING for the blessings of God and thanking Him for them when we recognize them.

Several years ago, I started asking God to make me more aware of His presence as He worked in me and through and around me. Praying this way has had a profound result in my life. I have become increasingly more aware of God’s provisions, and because of that I have become a person who is FILLED with thanksgiving. At first I was surprised at how often I recognized God at work in my world, but now I have come to expect it! If I don’t see God’s blessings and provisions in a situation, I KNOW something is not right. And the flip side of that truth is that I know things ARE right when I do see God blessing. When He is blessing, I have peace … and I am encouraged to stay the course. I’m not inclined to go looking for something else to make me feel good, and in that regard my heart and mind are protected. Isn’t that exactly what the following passage says will happen?

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:4-7 NIV)

I LOVE it when I recognize the truths of God’s Word at work in my life! I’m so thankful He taught me this lesson, and I’m thankful that I have the opportunity to share it with YOU!

¹ Col 4:2 NIV

Keeping it real,