He Is Worthy of Your Praise

Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem! Praise your God, O Zion! For He has strengthened the bars of your gates; He has blessed your children within you. He makes peace in your borders, and fills you with the finest wheat. — Psalm 147:12-14

Several years ago, as I traveled through New York, I came upon a Christmas store. While inside I read this question, “What if you woke up today with only what you thanked God for yesterday?” I have never forgotten that because it speaks the truth.

We are all guilty of taking God for granted. We expect God to bless us, yet we hardly ever thank Him for all He has done for us.

Let’s think about all that we have.

When was the last time we really and truly thanked God for all we have?

Even the poorest person in America is still wealthier than some people in other parts of the world. It’s easy to become so tied up in day-to-day life that we neglect seeing all of the blessings around us. But if we get into the habit of thanking God for everything we have all day long, our lives will change, as will the lives around us.

Read Psalms 146-150. Each chapter ends the same way, “Praise the Lord!” It’s amazing what praising the Lord will do for our lives. When we are grateful, thankful, and responsive to the blessings of God, life becomes better. It’s hard sometimes to stay positive in such a negative world, but if we keep our eyes focused on Him and continue to praise Him, we will win.

Lord, thank You for Your love, faithfulness, and blessings. Let me focus on who You are and what You are doing! In Jesus’ name, amen.

~ Dr . Rob Zinn, Immanuel Baptist Church, Highland, CA

Excerpted with permission from The Heart of Worship, copyright Thomas Nelson.

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Your Turn

What are you grateful for during this Advent season? Family? A place to live? Church friends? All that sparkles and brings joy during a tough year? Let’s remember to worship Jesus and thank Him for His generous gifts to us. He is worthy to be praised! ~ Devotionals Daily