Daily Scripture

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in every situation because this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7

Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Matthew 26:27-28

Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you; for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”

Prayer Tip

Matthew 28:20: “Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

I had to go to the dentist this Monday to have a cavity filled. It was a Monday (groan), cloudy and cold outside (double groan) and I had to go to the dentist (triple groan). When the dentist had finished his procedure, I thanked him. Even though it wasn’t optimal conditions for gratitude, I was thankful that I had access to dental care and my tooth could be fixed by a nice dentist in a comfortable office.

Gratitude is a spiritual practice that requires daily attention. It’s not something we do only when things are great in our lives. Even when situations are tough, we are called to be thankful. There are always things that we can find in our lives to be grateful for.

I know I am writing from a place and perspective different from yours. You may be going through a challenging time. Things may be very dark – but even when there is nothing else, we can be thankful that God is with us. He will not leave or forsake us. If we are in the middle of a storm or in an empty house with no money and no friends, God is with us. There is something comforting about that – it is something to be grateful for.

I hope this week you will take time to pray prayers of Thanksgiving for all God has done and is doing in our life.

Dear Lord,

We come to you with humble and grateful hearts. Thank you for being a constant, divine presence in our lives. Thank you for your guidance and care. We ask that you help us cultivate thankful hearts. Please be with us as we go into this busy season. May we seek and find you daily.

Amen.

 - Ashly Cooley, Counseling & Support Ministries

Read today's Insight by Ashly Cooley Ashly supports the Congregational Care ministry at Resurrection Leawood. She works primarily with our Counseling and Support ministries.