Be ye thankful. Colossians 3:15
One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp has confirmed my earlier
notions that we must live a joyful life. The author was challenged by a friend
to record one thousand things she loved. She took up this challenge to name one
thousand blessings. Literally. Write it down.
Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father
in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5:20
She had been on a journey to find the mystery to the full
life. Her journey led her to believe that thankfulness is how the child of God
finds fulfillment in life. Especially in naming His gifts. If a thing is
unnamed, it remains in the shadows. Do you feel thankful for something you
haven’t named?
In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in
Christ Jesus concerning you. 1Thessalonians 5:18
As she describes her
discoveries, it resonates with me. Yes, how many times are we instructed in the
Word to be thankful? How many times do we see successful people who are
thankful? Not successful as the world would term success, but happy, fulfilled
people.
Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went
into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he
kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before
his God, as he did aforetime. Daniel 6:10
What did Daniel give God thanks for? Three times a day. Do we please our Father
by naming His gifts to us in thankfulness? Does He feel our love for all the
good things He’s blessed us with? We will feel His love begin to fill our lives
as we name His gifts.
For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be
refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: 1 Timothy 4:4
The prayer before the meal. Is it one of thanksgiving? Or is
it a ritual?
And he took the cup, and gave thanks…. Luke 22:17
And he took bread, and gave thanks… Luke 22:19
And he took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks…
Matthew 15:36
In giving thanks, things are multiplied. We are filled. We see more. And more.
You must search, to be able to name. One thousand gifts?
Where will you find them?
Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name: the upright shall dwell in they presence. Psalm 10:13
Name the gifts and it will change you. Do not stop when you
reach one thousand. That was only to get you in the habit of looking amongst
all of life, good and bad, to find what your Lover wants you to receive today.
O Lord my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever. Psalm 30:12
If you want to read One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are you can find it on Amazon or CBD.
Will you join me in a race to name a thousand gifts?
What gift do you behold at this moment?
Disclaimer: I receive no compensation for this book review or from any links in this post.
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