SATURDAY 21ST JAN.,2017

TOPIC: BE GRATEFUL FOR WHAT YOU HAVE
TEXT: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you….”

Sadly most times, we encounter very sick people probably after discovering before they fell ill that, they actually lived wasted lives; their energy and time were spent drinking, smoking and doing other unproductive things. A life one can describe as a pointless existence without working. Moreso, when they realize that they have only a few weeks, months or years to live; in some cases life suddenly takes on urgency and a new meaning. So you see them most times actually happier than they were before. ‘When one’s expectations are reduced to zero, one really appreciates everything that one does have.’ When one is told that you only have a limited time to live, it transforms your whole perspective on living. Things one overlooked suddenly become meaningful such as the love of going to church and wanting do things that one never really wanted to do.
The love of friends and family, or just even a walk in the park becomes a treasure. The most miserable people in the world are those who believe that life ‘owes them’. They’re never happy, because they never believe they get what they deserve. The apostle Paul was in prison with no hope of getting out when he wrote, ‘In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.’ What was he saying? Instead of competing, comparing, and complaining, focus on the good things God has given you, enjoy them and develop an attitude of gratitude (Phil 4:8) by being content with what you have. This implies trusting God that we will have a enough to get by, but that we do have enough already right now. You have enough to be the person God wants you to be and to have the life He wants you to have. Meditate on these questions and ask the Holy Spirit to speak to you. How are you proactive in your trust with God probably when things are not okay with you? What signal do you give to God and people around you? A signal of regrets or joy and thanksgiving despite all odds. Contentment is a habitual thing. Stay being grateful always.

Meditation: Phil 4:10-13

Bible Study
Gen. 22; Matthew 21; Nehemiah 11; Acts 21