Becoming Thankful and Joyful

Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.”  Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life.  Philippians 2:14-16

Our attitude determines our altitude.  This is so true.  When we take the position, throughout the day, of being thankful and joyful, our lives shine.  The Bible says that the joy of the Lord is our strength.  When we are thankful and joyful, we possess the wherewithal to overcome little and large circumstances.

A cheerful heart is also good medicine according to Proverbs.  It is healthy to have a joyful heart.

When we avoid grumbling and complaining and learn to praise our God throughout the day, we become winsome witnesses of the gospel.  No one wants to take advice from someone that is depressed and always complaining.  In Philippians, it says that when we cease from complaining and arguing, we shine like the stars in the sky.  Unbelievers will take notice of us.

Let’s make it our ambition to be thankful and joyful and let’s let our praise resound each day.  With this attitude, we will rise, we will shine, and we will become winsome witnesses in a world that is warped, crooked and hungry for the truth.

Those that Know Their God

“… but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.” Daniel 11:32b KJV

A person who intimately knows God is not easily intimidated.  They have fortitude. They possess strength, strength that comes from God.  They also are known for doing exploits.  This includes moving in the gifts of the Spirit like healing and prophesy.  It also includes being an effective witness for the Lord. 

A person who knows God will also understand who they are in Christ, for this is connected to their relationship with Him.  The Holy Spirit reveals who we are in Christ as we spend time with Him in the secret place. 

People who intimately know God are also human.  They miss the mark, but they have learned to get back up after every fall.  They know how to receive God’s forgiveness.  They understand the importance of repentance.

Let’s examine our hearts and see how we can better know our God.  With His help we can be characterized by uncompromising strength.  We can also be known as a people who do exploits.  Our nation and the world needs believers who possess these traits. 

Let’s pray…

Dear Father God,

Help me to know You more.  Teach me who I am in Christ. Make me strong, and use me for Your glory.  In Jesus name I pray, Amen.