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

Gratitude for the Journey

The children of Israel were on countless journeys through the wilderness, in and out of captivity but they often missed seeing God’s hand in them.  We also are on a journey. Christ-likeness is the destination and it’s important  for us to bless Him with our gratitude along the journey, as God’s spirit works through all things to perfect in us Jesus!  (See Romans 8:28-29)

Pause to consider that God’s ultimate purpose for your life—transforming you into thelikeness of Christ so that you can express His glory—

• allows you to receive of God’s abundant blessings.  (See John 10:10)

• enables you to bless others with His love.  (See I John 4:12, I Corinthians 3:3)

• blesses God and brings Him pleasure.  (See Psalm 100:2, Revelations 4:11)

What do these truths do to your heart? Might you be touched to offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving to God, confident that such an offering honors and glorifies Him?

Share with Him your response to the following:

Jesus, as I consider the wonder that Your transforming purpose in my life actually blesses You and others around me, and that Your calling on my life also serves as one of the avenues through which You bless and provide for me, my heart is filled with ________________________________________________________________________

(For example: My heart is filled with praise, awe, wonder, gratitude, love, joy. I cannot get over how much You love me, and I hope I never do!)

Pause to pray with a friend or small group, giving God honor through your praise and thanksgiving.

I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.  Revelation 1:18