You who are steadfast in joy and gladness, built of thankful praise, it is in you that I am seen by others. Hearts reflecting unflickering faith, reflect true trust in the God unseen – a leaping heart that does not waver with trial, constant in thanksgiving beyond circumstance or conflict. Holding fast to the peace within them, they endure many trials, carry much, and forgive many. Without question they follow the Spirit. In sun and rain they do not flinch. Their hand is offered to all; great and small do they serve the same. The smile of their eyes is genuine, and their promise sincere. Glory they give to their Father, and praise is always on their lips, for they trust the mind of God and believe His mighty ways. Rightly and earnestly do they seek their Savior attentively listening for His voice. Unwavering in faith and thanksgiving, steady in the Father’s love to all their Father brings them. Each dines with a grateful heart, and praises still in hunger and thirst, entering the day with uplifted heart, and peace at night is their reward. The heart is refreshed in praise, and the mind renewed in gladness, therefore, set your mind in gratefulness. Speak only of the wonderful, the faithfulness of God, then rest will fill your soul for speaking, and healing through your bones. Bring to others a light steady, and in that steady light – unfailing is your witness.
Isaiah 26:3-4 (ESV) – You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.
Psalm 50:23 (ESV) – The one who offers thanksgiving as his sacrifice glorifies me; to one who orders his way rightly I will show the salvation of God!”
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (ESV) – Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Bottom Line: The steady, thankful heart is pleasing to God, and is a great witness to others of our faith, but it is very hard to do, very hard. Many of us have known other strong men and women of God who seem to be unshakable in their joy and faith. No matter what the circumstance, no matter what injustice they face, in sickness and in health, they never falter in their faith and are always thankful. What a testimony! What a testimony we would be! This thanksgiving, let’s hit our knees in prayer that we might start again to be that steady, thankful, joyful person God is calling us to be. Read Thessalonians 5:16-18 again, slowly. It is for you (and me) this Thanksgiving.
