“Give thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Eph. 5:20
Heavenly Father, thank you for only commanding things that deepen our knowledge of you, and joy in you. The command to give thanks is a perfect example. We have copious reasons to be and stay grateful. In fact, on this first Tuesday of November, we want to get a jumpstart on Thanksgiving Day.
Thank you for granting us 100% forgiveness, robing us in Jesus’ righteousness, and hiding our lives in Christ You can’t love us more, and you’ll never love us less. That good news shrinks all other bad news.
Thank you for sovereignly ruling over all things all the time. Nothing is more certain than your commitment to complete your work in us, and finish making all things new. Though we question your timing, the Gospel reassures of your heart.
Thank you for technicolor leaf-blasts, trout that bite, and non-posing friends. Thank you for Romans 8, a cornucopia of salads, and chocolate-pumpkin brownies.
Thank you that Alzheimer’s and Covid, mental illness and addiction, prodigal wandering and family disappointments don’t get the last word. Because the Gospel is true, we can vex less and repent quicker, fear less and trust more, sleep deeper and laugh louder.
Father, thank you for the near Day of wiped tears and redeemed sorrows, no more sin in our hearts, and your glory covering the earth. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ merciful and mighty name.