Think On These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Frustration

Matthew 11:28-30
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

I seem to be frustrated with circustances out of my control frequently--whether it is work, home, or just people.  I often find myself wishing I had more time, wishing those around me were a bit more....well perfect.  :)  This often leads to a frustration. 

When I get frustrated, I need to realize that I am taking on the difficulties of life instead of leaving them with the Lord.  He has promised us rest in Matthew 11:28-30 if we will come to Him--not once, but twice!!!  We have to come to Him, though and give our burdens to Him!  Also, praying for the person or situation is a great way to give your burden to the Lord and helps to decrease frustrations with others.  I also often ask God to help me to remember to give the burden back to Him if I take it back from Him!!!  We can also ask Him for wisdom or to change our hearts or another's heart.  I also need to remember that the world is in His hands, not mine, so it is not my responsibility to solve the world's problems!  (Thankfully!!!)  Really, none of us would want the responsibility of the world in our hands so why do we walk around with the weight of the world's problem weighing us down?  Pretty silly when you think about it.  Kind of like the child struggling with the bag of potatoes who insists on carrying it, even when a parent offers and ultimately ends us falling or dropping the potatoes!

I also need to remember that frustration is really a sin because I am not leaving things to the Lord.  I also tend to be short tempered and complain when I am frustrated.  Also, it is not worth the guilt to be short tempered!

Remeber, if we have given our burdens to Him your burden will be light, not heavy. Heavy means you have not given them to Him because His burden is light!

Think on These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Salt
Matthew 5:13--Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.

We often take salt for granted.  It's cheap and always available.  We really don't think about how useful it is.  We use it all the time without realizing how important it is.  It helps to flavor foods and we really don't think about what food would taste like without it.  We also don't often think about how many foods it is protecting from spoiling.  It is also important in baking.  In the north, it helps to thaw ice!!!

Christians are also the salt of the earth.  Yet we don't realize how important we are in preserving/keeping the world as a decent place to live.  Can you imagine what the world would be like without a Christian presence.  We may not realize the difference we make when around others.   If we have a good testimony, just our presence can help to keep the bad joke from being told, the expletive from flying, etc.  Maybe we help to thaw an ice cold heart!  We can also make the world a better place by the example we lead and the kindness we show to others.  We need to make sure we are salt whereever we are!  If the salt loses it's savor, it is good for nothing!!!

Think On These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Following God's Leading

Proverbs 3:5-6--Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

I have been praying about finding a new job for about a year.  God has not given me peace about moving on, so I have stayed put.  Last month, He gave me peace about pursuing other jobs.  I had an interview this week and that is a whole other story, which I will tell you if I get the job.  :o)  I have been praying about whether to tell my boss or not.  I have worked at my current job for over seven years, we've been through some pretty interesting times together and there is the possibility that decisions could be made that would be made differently if she knew I was looking for another job.  I know that conventional wisdom is not to let your employer know, but I didn't have peace about following this.  I told her and she was sad, but understanding and told me she would do whatever she could to help me get the job, including not having to give a four week notice.  Giving a four week notice has been a big concern for me because I know they want to get this position filled ASAP.  I am so happy I followed God's leading.  I have much more peace of mind and no longer feel deceitful.  I am in no way saying you should always let your employer know that you are looking for another job, however you SHOULD follow God's leading.

I think it is wonderful to be able to leave God in charge of our lives and leave the worries to Him!!!

Think On These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

There are times when it is difficult to wait on the Lord.  We just want to have that answer NOW!  Waiting on the Lord, though will save us much heartache and difficulties.  If we try to run ahead of Him, we will end up without His protection and blessing.  How much better to put our lives in His hands and remove the worries of trying to live our life on our own.

I am so thankful for God's promises below:

Isaiah 40:31

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Proverbs 3:5-7

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.  Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.

These are pictures of Ma'Ayon Harod or Gideon's Spring.  This is where God narrowed down the number of soldiers from 10,000 to 300 by the way they drank the water.  Gideon's story reminds us of the importance of waiting on God and following his guidance.  Gideon could have easily tried to do things on his own and what a disaster and missed blessing that would have been.

*I'm going to try to post pictures of Israel as I think of one that is applicable and maybe just for fun.  :o)

Think On These Things Thursday

John 17:13-17

And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves.  I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.  I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.  They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

I read this passage this morning and was struck with the way Jesus prayed for His disciples right before He knew that He was going to be taken and suffer many things for us.  He could have prayed for strength for Himself, but He was more concerned about those around Him.

  

John 20:20-23

Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.  And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.

Then I read this passage and realized that He also prayed for everyone who would believe in Him and trust Him as Savior.  I may have known this at one point, but how neat to know that Jesus prayed for each one of His children who currently were His children and who would later become His children!  Jesus said a prayer for me and for you if you are a child of His!

The other thing I wanted to point out is that in todays world of twisted ideologies and everyone doing what "they" think is best or "feels right", the only place to truly find the Truth is in the Bible.  Not from philosphy books or even Pastors.  We need to make sure that what we are believing and see as Truth lines up with the Bible.

Think on These Things

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

I must apologize for totally missing Think on These Things Thursday.  I'm afraid that my work life has been pretty hard on my heart this week, and my brain hasn't been functioning at full throttle.

I am so glad that when things get tough, though that we can know that God is in charge.  We can't always control what happens to us or those around us, but we can control our reactions.  I am afraid mine have not always been the best this week.  Until I spent a lot of time in prayer and I know had many people praying for me, my main reaction was anger.  Anger can be right, but usually isn't.  Even if you are angry for the right reasons, it is very easy to say and do things that are not right or to have a bad attitude.

I am glad though for all the blessings God has given me.  Really, my life is blessed in so many ways.  I have a wonderful family, God who takes care of me and loves me, and a great church family and many wonderful Christian friends.  My work life has been pretty stressful for awhile, but I know that God has me there for a reason.  I will continue there until He gives me the green light to move on. There are many people who have lost their jobs, have stressful work lives and then they go home to a stressful home life and don't have faith in a God who cares for them.  It breaks my heart and terrifies me to think of life without a God who loves me, takes care of me, and works everything together for good!

Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
I originally put this verse in a card for a friend who was told her job will end next week.  It struck me today, though that this verse while mainly applied to supplying our monetary/physical needs can also be applied to God supplying whatever we need, be it spiritual, physical, strength, wisdom, control over our emotions, etc.  How often, though we run about, wearing ourselves out trying to provide all those things ourselves, instead of going to the One who has already promised these things to us through HIS RICHES!!!

Think On These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Psalm 119:89-104

For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. 90Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth. 91 They continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all are thy servants. 92 Unless thy law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction. 93I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me. 94 I am thine, save me; for I have sought thy precepts. 95 The wicked have waited for me to destroy me: but I will consider thy testimonies.96 I have seen an end of all perfection: but thy commandment is exceeding broad.97 O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day.98 ¶ Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me.99 I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation.100 I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts.101 ¶ I have refrained my feet from every evil way, that I might keep thy word.102 ¶ I have not departed from thy judgments: for thou hast taught me.103 ¶ How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!104 Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.

God's Word:

• Is settled, perfect, needs no changes.
• Reminds us of God's faithfulness to us.
• Is pur guidebook.
• Protects us from trouble if we follow it.
• Is an encouragement.
• Gives us wisdom.
• Gives us understanding.
• Gives us peace in the troubles of life.

I loved this passage and how it reminds us of how powerful and helpful God's Word is!

Think on These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Psalm 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.

It is so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life and to end up feeling stressed. Instead, we need to Be still and remember who is in control. If we are stressed we have either taken on too much and/or are not relying on His wisdom and guidance. Be still and pray!

Think On These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Philippians 2:3--Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

It is so easy to get caught up in ourselves and to forget about this verse. Really, we are nothing special. And we are certainly not more important than those around us. Sometimes we can get caught up in what is "their" responsibility and spend more time fussing and getting annoyed than the time it would take to just pick up the socks, take out the trash, etc.

If we get caught up in the trap of thinking we are better than someone else, so we should be treated special, we should think of the God of Heaven who came to earth to be born in a manger and basically live a poor man's life and THEN died a criminal's death for us. Jesus was certainly better than each of us, yet He humbled Himself to save a bunch of sinners--sinners who seldom do as He asks or appreciate His sacrifice!

If we would remember that we are not better than others AND in humility put others first, think of all the fighting, annoyance and hurt feelings we would avoid. We also just might have a great testimony for Christ as others see the difference in our life.

Think on These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

I Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing.

On my travels this week, I listened to sermons. Most of them were about Baptist Heritage and were really interesting and eye opening. One was on prayer. Isn't it amazing how prayer is really such a simple thing, talking to God. Yet it is easy to neglect. The pastor went through a list of things we often do that we could replace with prayer.

Here are a few:

1. Worry--instead, pray about the situation
2. Frustration--pray about the situation or for the person who is frustrating you.
3. Gossip--pray for the person instead of gossiping.
4. Discouragement--pray about the situation.
5. Anger at/Dislike of others--pray for the person.
6. Conflict with authority--pray that God will change your heart or their heart.
7. Unable to sleep--pray
8. Difficult time making a decision--pray about it
9. Temptation--pray God will show you a way of deliverance!

Work has been difficult at times lately, so I am making it a point to pray for each person in our company every day, at least once. Now that I say that, though I realized I forgot our owner--will need to add him. It was amazing how much better today was--much less frustrating.

Isn't it so simple! Bring our difficulties to God instead of trying to handle things ourselves--what a concept! I am also praying that God will remind me to pray!

One other thought--If we are getting frustrated or worrying, it is because we are trying to handle things ourselves instead of trusting God--the all-knowing, all-powerful One who has promised to take care of us!!! How silly! Now to remember this all the time!!!

Think On These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Matthew 5:13-16

Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

These verses tell us of the importance to be a good testimony. It is so easy to let down our guard and to ruin our testimony. We need to make sure that our life is different than unsaved people so they see a difference for the better in our lives. If we live, talk, worry, etc. like them, then they will see no need for Christ in their life. We should be the salt in the world that keeps the places we are in from rotting and we should be the light that shows others to Christ.

Think on These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Matthew 5:38-42

Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also. And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.

It is so easy to get frustrated with people and to be unkind to them. However, if we remember that we are nothing by servants of God and put away our pride, we would probably be less likely to get bent out of shape. If someone truly is unkind, we are to take the high rode, and NOT stoop to their level.

The portion of this passage that talks about if you are compelled to go a mile, go with him two is referring to when Roman soldiers would tell a Jew to carry their belongings. By law they only had to carry it one mile. Jesus is saying to love our neighbor (even if they are occupying your country) and to go the extra mile, literally. This would be quite a sacrifice. Instead of going two miles out of your way (one with the soldier, then returning), you would now have to go 4 miles out of your way. If Jesus told the Jewish people to do this for a Roman soldier, I think that He would expect us to be kind and go the extra mile for others in our lives.

We also need to remember that anything we have belongs to the Lord, so if someone needs to borrow it, we should allow them to. After all, our belongings are God's. He will take care of it. If He doesn't, then we either didn't need it or He has something better in store for us. Having said that, I DO think that we should be good stewards of our belongings. I don't volunteer my belongings to others who do not take care of their own things or tend to lose their belongings like I would someone who takes care of their belongings. I do usually loan things to people if they have a true need, even if I don't really trust them and count on God to take care of it. :o)

Think on These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8--Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things.


Have you ever noticed that we always expect God to be faithful to us, but often don't think a lot about it we are not faithful to Him? We think so little of not following His commandments, but get bent out of shape if something goes wrong in our life.

First, trials come in our lives so that we can grow spiritually, God can get our attention, and/or so that He might be glorified through our testimony. NOT because God is not faithful.

1Thessalonians 5:24 Faithful is He that calleth you, who also will do it.

Deuteronomy 31:8 And the LORD, He it is that doth go before thee; He will be with thee, He will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.

Second, we need to search our hearts and life to make sure we are being faithful to God. He sacrificed His only Son for us and cares about us so much that He knows how many hairs are on our head. Some people treat God almost like a vending machine, they only go to Him when they want something and think that saying a couple of words in prayer or acknowledging Him for a moment should get their needs taken care of. God asks us to be faithful to Him. While it is true that God will forgive us when we are not, we will miss many blessings along the way if we are not faithful to Him. We may never know the blessings we missed because of our unfaithfulness. Lets strive to be faithful to Him by reading our Bibles, spending time in prayer, being in church every service, having a good testimony, etc.

Think about your walk with God--how faithful are you to Him? Would you be happy if your spouse/best friend was just that faithful to you?

Think on These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8--Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things.

I didn't really make any New Year's Resolutions this year. I have a couple of goals that I am working toward, but not necessarily tied to the New Year. I have been thinking a lot about the verse:

James 4:17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.

This verse can be applied to almost every area of our life. So often we know what we are supposed to do, but don't. We often don't even think of it as wrong.

James 4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.

This verse reminds us that life is short, we have very little time on this earth to lay up our treasures in heaven and to impact others for the Lord.

Some thoughts in light of the above verses:

Remember that there are many things that are not wrong, but if we do them INSTEAD of what we should be doing, then they are wrong. My pastor has this motto: We do what we ought before what we want!

Home--Make sure we are kind to our family members, keep our house clean, cook good meals. We also need to be careful how we spend our time and what we are watching, reading, etc. Also, if we know we should address a discipline issue with our kids and don't--it is wrong.

Church--We need to be a help to others and be active in our churches. If there isn't a place you can serve, you can be a huge help through prayer. Always be looking for a way to help out, even if it is picking up the trash outside. Be an encouragement to others. One of my goals is to send cards to people who haven't been to church in awhile to let them know I missed them.

Work--we need to make sure we are doing our best, not goofing off and letting someone else pick up the slack. Also, we need to make sure we are not taking more breaks than we should or showing up late (five minutes is 25 minutes a week, which means you will have robbed your boss of over 20 hours of work in a year). We should also be an encouragement and help others out when they need it.

Spiritual Walk--we know we need to read our Bible, pray, and attend church. When we don't it is wrong.

Waist line--You could even apply this to what we eat and lack of exercise. We know we should, so...

I am praying that God will bring this verse to mind in any of the above situations and many more I am sure I haven't even thought of!!!

Think on These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8--Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things.

I love to read the Christmas story over and over the couple of weeks before Christmas. I am always struck with God's miracle of love for us. Over and over it says "that it might be fulfilled" or "as it was spoken by the prophet". How long He loved and planned for salvation for us, even though we are so unworthy. I also can not wrap my brain around the knowledge that God loved me so much He was willing to leave a perfect, beautiful place where He was loved and worshipped to come to the imperfect world to be scorned, doubted and murdured. All so that each of us, though unworthy and imperfect might live with Him in Heaven some day. Such love in uncomprehendable to me!

Let's keep focused on the true meaning of Christmas this year.

Think On These Things Thursday

It is better to give than receive

It is so easy to get caught up in what we will "get" for Christmas and to forget about the blessing of giving. It is also easy to allow Christmas to become a "duty" or burden instead of remembering that we are giving to others because of God's wonderful gift of Salvation. "God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."--John 3:16. God gave to us selflessly, knowing that what He would get in return was imperfect humans that ridiculed Him, served Him when it was convenient for us, talked to Him only when we want something from Him, were ashamed to tell others about Him, etc. We need to keep the true meaning of Christmas--giving to remind us of what Christ did for us in leaving a beautiful, perfect home and coming to an imperfect earth and then dying on the cross for our sins.Have a wonderful Christmas season!

Philippians 4:8--Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things.

As the Christmas season approaches, I thought I would focus on a few names of Christ.

Emmanuel

Matthew 1:23--Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

It is so great to have a God who is with us and helping us throughout our life!

Only Begotten

John 1:14--And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

It amazes me that God would leave a perfect place in Heaven and come to the imperfect earth to be despised, rejected and then beaten and crucified for me so that someone as imperfect as I could go to Heaven.

Think on These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8--Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things.

Thanksgiving Thoughts--Part Two

When should we give thanks?
In every circumstance. (God does not tell us to be thankful for everything, but to have a thankful spirit in every circumstance, including mountain tops and valleys! It is easy to forget to be thankful and take things for granted on mountain tops. It is easy to complain and whine in the valley. We should have a thankful spirit in every circumstance!)

1 Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God

During our prayer time.

Psalms 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving...

Continually; habitually.

Hebrews 13:15--By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

For what should we give thanks?

For His goodness and mercy (forgiveness).

1 Chronicles 16:34-35 O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His lovingkindness is everlasting.

For His protection.

2 Samuel 22:49 And that bringeth me forth from mine enemies: thou also hast lifted me up on high above them that rose up against me: thou hast delivered me from the violent man.

For the wonders of creation and life.

Psalms 139:14 I will give thanks to Thee, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; wonderful are thy works...
For food, drink and other provisions.

The secret of maintaining a grateful heart is contentment.

Thank him daily.

Psalms 68:19 Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits...
Thank him no matter what happens.
Philippians 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.

1 Timothy 6:6, 8 But godliness with contentment is great gain.... And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.

Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee...

Think on These Things Thursday--Belated

Philippians 4:8--Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things.

Thanksgiving Thoughts--Part One

Gratitude is an attitude: it should mold and shape our lives – not just be something we do or say. In the Old Testament, "sacrifices" of thanksgiving were offered. (Leviticus 7:12, 13, 15) Some Levites were even "appointed" to the office of giving thanks – indicating its great importance.
1Ch 16:4 And he appointed [certain] of the Levites to minister before the ark of the LORD, and to record, and to thank and praise the LORD God of Israel:

God commands us to be thankful.
1 Thessalonians 5:18–In everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Psalms 50:14, 97:12; 100:4; 105:1; 106:1; 107:1; 136:1-3, 26, Ephesians 5:3, 4, 19, 20; Colossians 1:12; 2:6, 7; 3:16, 17; 4:2
The benefits of thankfulness-- Being thankful is "good" for us.

Psalms 92:1 It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord..
1. It is helps our prayers/relationship with God.
Psalms 95:2 Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving...Psalms 100:4 Psalms 140:1
2. It yields the peace of God in our hearts and minds.
Philippians 4:6, 7–Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
3. It is God's will.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this isthe will of God...

4. Being thankful is a good indicator of our spiritual condition.
1. The wicked are ungrateful:

"For ... they did not honor him as God, or give thanks; but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened" (Romans 1:21)
2. In contrast: "the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name." (Psalms 140:1)

How should we give thanks?
1. With our voice, not just in our thoughts.
Psalms 34:1 (cp. Psalms 71:8; 109:30) ...in my mouth...Psalms 35:28 ... with my tongue...Hebrews 13:15... let us offer... the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
2. In music.--2 Samuel 22:50 ...I will sing praises unto thy name.
3. With prayer.--Philippians 4:6--Be careful (anxious; worried) for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

Think on These Things Thursday

Philippians 4:8--Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things.

Most human beings have an almost infinite capacity to take things for granted. Aldous Huxley

This quote really made me stop and think. It is so easy to take things for granted. I would make a list of all the things I take for granted, but I am pretty sure it would be hugely incomplete. So often, we find ourselves bent out of shape about something, but if we stopped to think we really should be thankful for how good we've had it up to this small bump in the road. If we made a list of all the things we have to be thankful for it would FAR outweigh any difficulties we have in our lives.

I Thessalonians 5:18--In everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

This verse does not say that we need to be thankful for everything, but rather that in any situation we can find something to be thankful for. Remember that God is always going to be in control. :o)