Sunday Bible Corner: Gratitude and Peace

"Whoever offers praise glorifies Me; and to him who orders his conduct aright I will show the salvation of God." (Psalm 50:23)

The Bible is filled with many verses of praise and thanksgiving - and nearly all of the Psalms contain praise. God is the Creator of the universe and sustains it by His power. He's our provider, our Savior from sin and hell, our giver of hope, and the source of our joy. It's only right that we should praise Him and thank Him for all His blessings.

Much is being made of the negative things taking place in the world, and in the U.S. There is much to be concerned about in the political world, as well. So what are we, as Christians, supposed to do?

The answer is simple: pray, and give thanks to God for His protection and provision.

Praise and thanksgiving (gratitude) are actions, but they're also attitudes. You've heard that you are to cultivate an attitude of gratitude; that's what I'm talking about. In Luke 17, Jesus said that gratitude even leads to healing:

"And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned and with a loud voice glorified God, and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks ... And He said to him, "Arise; go your way. Your faith has made you well." (Luke 17:15-19)

Jesus was showing us the importance of acknowledging God's grace and goodness toward us. So as we go into a new year, we mustn't get hung up on what's on the news. The stories may be depressing, but we must not surrender to despair. When we thank God for His goodness, provision, and protection, we remind ourselves that He is watching over us, and take comfort in knowing that He is in charge.

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
(John 14:26-27)

" I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)