“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
I Thessalonians 5: 18

Many times we consider ourselves grateful, but how often and how much do we acknowledge that if it were not for the Lord where would we be? I know that every one of us probably has a list of things that we need and want God to do, but before we go into that list (and nothing is wrong with you having that list) let’s enter into His gates with THANKSGIVING. By doing this we also acknowledge that if God did it for us before (whatever that IT was), He can certainly do it again. God loves to “outdo” Himself and exceed our expectations. It gives Him great pleasure!

If we are going to ask God for anything then we need to trust that He is going to do it if it is in His will. Let’s approach it as if we are in TRAINING FOR TRUST! If we trust that God is going to answer our prayers then that eliminates space for doubt, fear, worry, anxiety, etc. Trust cannot successfully coexist with those things that are diametrically opposed to it. You must trust God to know that He is working everything out for your good.

To aid in this process it is important to daily read and even memorize scriptures that speak of THANKSGIVING and TRUST! Quote them, write them out, journal about them . . . this is all TRAINING FOR TRUST! Additionally, in this training process, develop a consistent regimen for prayer. For example, this is the eighth month of the year, and the number 8 is representative of new beginnings in the bible. Therefore, wherever you are and whatever you are doing at 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., make every effort to have a few moments of prayer! Please do not let these times be your only time of prayer. This is to help you to increase and improve our prayer life.

I believe God longs to hear from and talk with His children! The more you speak well of Him and thank Him for those things He has already done in your life, the more He will do for you — that is just how much He loves you and how good our God is!

Source: First Lady Denise