Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way. Colossians 3:17 (Message)
Hello Friend,
How many times have I mentioned to you how much I enjoy my Message Bible? If you were to go out and purchase a new version, this one should be high on your list and I heartily recommend it. Not a study Bible with maps, reference notes, or a concordance, it is just a very readable, pierce-your-heart–with- the-Word version. And today’s scripture is no exception.
The New English Bible says, “Be filled with gratitude.” Okay, that’s good—but easy to gloss over—you’ve heard it said so many times before. But the Message Bible says, “Let every detail in your lives…be an opportunity to give thanks.” Every detail! Every word! Every action! Now that’s a challenge. Should I give thanks for the dirty dishes in the sink? Yes! Many are going without dinner; no money for food. Many don’t have a sink; finding themselves homeless and they would love to exchange their soup kitchen dinner on a Styrofoam plate for even cereal in a Pottery Barn bowl.
What about your words—are they peppered with praise? Or, must the Lord listen to you mumble and grumble as you stand in your lovely, air-conditioned kitchen and scrub dishes. Some of us may have repeated a hasty, habitual prayer before our meal; but I imagine many even forgot to thank God for our food before we quickly devoured it. We are so busy; no time to be pondering our blessings. What must the Lord be thinking? At age 72, almost 73, I am grateful for every day, every moment. So many are suffering with the debilitating effects of old age, but I confess that at times, you’ll hear me murmur, “Oh, this aching back.” Shame on me! I need to be “thanking God every step of the way,” even if my steps are a little slower. What about you? Do you thank God? I mean really stop and praise Him for every detail in your life. Don’t wait for our once-a-year Thanksgiving celebration to remember to thank God. Do it today! Do it right now!
Prayer: Lord Jesus, forgive my selfish ways. Help me to recognize the blessings you send to me; even if that blessing comes to me in the form of dirty dishes.
Singing thankfully in my heart Linda
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