Give Thanks

As we approach the end of 2012 we have much to give thanks to our Lord for. There may have been hardships, sickness, death and loss that we have faced but in the midst of it all we can give thanks to our wonderful God who is the source of all hope in adversity.

How often do we thank God? Or are we always complaining about what we haven’t got and what we want? How often do we rise at midnight to praise the Lord? Often we collapse into bed after doing lots of things without even giving a second thought to our great God.

I was encouraged by a letter I received about a calling to prayer as we see 2013 in. It was put out by the Australian Indigenous Prayer Network and says “As we come into 2013 we have much to be thankful to the LORD who is bringing this year to a conclusion and bringing forth a new year before each one of us. One thing we are all sure of as we enter the New Year is that the LORD is calling us all to a greater diligence; a sharper awareness and discernment with a dedicated consecration and commitment to all those that are preparing to continue to walk this road in prayer and faith, trusting Him once again for the coming year ahead.

Let us therefore begin now with a new earnestness; diligence; love and commitment to firstly honour Abba Father with a heart of “praise and thanksgiving” for all that He has done for each one of us His children, throughout this past year.”

As we move into 2013 let us stay close to Jesus, acknowledge Him as our Lord and Saviour and honour Him.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I give you thanks for all your goodness and loving kindness to me and my family. Help me to thank you more in all circumstances and look to you as my help and strength, especially as we approach this New Year. May my heart be filled with praise and thanksgiving for You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.