1 Chronicles 16:7-14

Oh, give thanks to the LORD! Call upon His name; Make known His deeds among the peoples! (v8)

According to a prominent Duke University Medical Center researcher, “If thankfulness were a drug, it would be the world’s best-selling product with (health benefits) for every major organ system.”

For some, being thankful means simply living with a sense of gratitude – taking time to recognize and focus on the things we have, instead of the idea of thankfulness to a deeper level. The act of giving thanks causes us to recognize the One who provides our blessings (James 1:17).

David knew that God was responsible for the safe delivery of the ark of the covenant in Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 15:26)  As a result, he penned a song of gratitude that centered on God instead of simply expressing his delight in an important event. The ballad began: “Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done.” (16:8) David’s song went on to rejoice in God’s greatness, highlighting  God’s salvation, creative power, and mercy (vv25-38) Today we can be truly thankful by worshiping the Giver instead of the gifts we enjoy. Focusing on the good things in our lives may benefit our bodies, but directing our thanks to God benefits our souls.

PRAYER LINE: Gratitude is our natural response to God’s grace. Nothing so takes the heart out of a person as ingratitude. Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the other (CIERO)

____________________________________________________

True thanksgiving emphasizes the Giver rather than the gifts.