“Give Thanks to the LORD for He is good, and His loyal love endures!” Psalm 107:1

Appreciation Practice

This year, especially, I’m overcome at the beauty of the fall colors around us. I’ve never yet experienced an east coast fall, but I’ve heard it’s beautiful. In Shasta County, the Lord also displays His majesty in the bright colors and crispness of the air in the morning. I’m truly blessed and thankful.

Sometimes my attitude is changed when a “right” gets “wronged.” I become incensed instead of praying and giving it immediately over to the Lord. When I give these feelings over to our Lord, the anger lifts and His peace floods in reminding me, He is in control. He is always faithful to meet the situation in His grace and goodness, encouraging me to patiently trust in His might and control. In this too, “Give thanks to the LORD for His loyal love, for the amazing things He has done for His people” (Psalm 107:8, 15, 21, 31).

Having an appreciative heart can change a situation immediately and it can flow over to those around us. I am so thankful for the Lord’s obvious hand in our lives over the years; even when we’ve made wrong turns, He’s quickly brought us back to His will and purpose.

I’m thankful for His Word that constantly leads and guides with perfect truth. His Word is alive and Spirit-breathed, and when we acknowledge this, it changes us. I don’t always understand the “whys,” nor do I have to, but I know Who’s in control and His loyal love endures! No matter where we are reading, when we pray for His guidance, He will speak to our heart, meet us with His peace, and give us what we need for the moment.

I’m thankful for the fellowship of my sisters in my small group Bible Study. It’s a safe place to discuss how God is speaking to each of us and I’m assured of their acceptance and love. I know I can share my heart, trusting they will pray, as I can pray also for each of them. This makes me smile.

I’m thankful for my husband and family who have stood by me closely no matter what. My heart jumps with joy when I think of each of them. Thank You, Lord, for Your loyal love that endures for each generation!

I encourage each of you to think about the joys and loyal love of God in your lives, practicing telling Him “thank You.” Think about all the details that make up the day. Knowing God orchestrates the moments, we can pray and say “thank You” even if it’s negative, praying for His attitude and best result. Also rejoicing in the fall season, giving thanks in all things!

“Lord Jesus, I pray to be anxious for nothing, but in everything through prayer and petition with thanksgiving I let my request be known to You. With this, You promise that Your peace that surpasses all understanding will guard our hearts and minds through Christ (from Philippians 4:6-7). We give You Thanks!”