Gratitude that Saves
Monday, November 11, 2013 Posted by Sara
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"And he said to him, 'Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.' " - Luke 17:19
Familiar words of Jesus.
You might think that the above verse refers to a blind man being healed, or a paralyzed man picking up his mat.
On the contrary, this is the response of the living God to a man who simply said, "Thank you."
He was one of ten lepers fortunate enough to meet Jesus passing through a small village. Each begged him for healing. He simply told them to go show themselves to the priests. As they were walking - they were healed. But only one turned back to thank Jesus. Only one showed himself to the Highest of Priests - and for this simple act - he was not only healed, he was saved.
Psalm 100:4 says we enter his gates with praise and thanksgiving. There is something about saying "Thank you" that invites us into God's presence. It invites transformation into our lives - a healing that goes deeper than the skin.
I'm convinced that one of the reasons God desires us to walk with gratitude towards Him and others is there is power rooted in thanksgiving. It can literally change your life - and others.
I have noticed a remarkable difference when I start my day thanking God - even thanking Him in advance. My words declare a faith that I know my God is good, and He is not only worth thanking now, but will be worthy of my thanks at the end of the day.
"I thank you Father for this good day. I thank you for the peace that will be in my classroom today. I thank you for the love that will abound towards my students. I thank you for the energy you will fill me with today."
I wonder what might transform in or around you this week, if you purpose your heart to begin your day with a simple, "Thank you" to the Lord. What might faith accomplish if you thank Him in advance?
Sara Rust is your server today! Find out more about her here and don't forget to sign up for updates by email or RSS before you go.