The Decision

The Decision

As a matter of fact, God isn’t asking you to be thankful. He’s asking you to give thanks. There’s a big difference. One response involves emotions, the other your choices, your decisions about a situation, your intent, your “step of faith.”

Joni Eareckson Tada

My dear one, what will you do with your burdens today? You can choose dissatisfaction, bitterness, anger, or cynicism. Or you can look to Me and begin saying, “Thank you.” Your emotions tempt you to enter into doubt, fear, or even despair—but your day will be better if you voice your gratefulness to Me. Begin listing everything you have to be thankful for—your daily bread, the air you breathe, the encouragement of friends, and the message of hope from My Word.

With your eyes wide open, express your appreciation for those things and many more. Now make the decision to thank Me for your pain, your challenges, your place of suffering, and the energy-depleting people in your life. Tell Me how these things have drawn you closer to Me. What have you learned? How have you applied My principles to these experiences? How have delayed answers to prayer drawn you deeper into My Word? How are you identifying with people who are walking a difficult path? Is your empathy greater? Do you weep with those who weep? How has the decision to be thankful in all circumstances changed your life for the better? These trials will soon be over. Give thanks!

I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness; I will sing the praises of the name of the LORD Most High.

Psalm 7:17, NIV