[Devotional] IN HIS PRESENCE: Understanding the power of gratitude (1)

Read: LUKE 17:11-19

Meditation verse:

“So, Jesus answered and said, “where there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine?” (Luke 17:17).

Gratitude is the quality of being thankful. It is a readiness to show appreciation for and return kindness. Gratitude is a lifestyle. It is not something you do every now and then. Ephesians 5:20 says “giving thanks always for all things unto GOD. Always and all things means always and all things. That speaks of a lifestyle. It did not say only when something is done for you. When you do something always, it becomes a part of you, reflecting in your attitude, speech, and actions.

Our expression of gratitude should not depend on what is going on in our lives: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says “in everything give thanks for this is the will of God. God expects us to show gratitude and be thankful. He is pleased when we do. However, He will not demand it from us or force us to be grateful.

In today’s reading, ten lepers were healed by Jesus, only one returned to show gratitude. And Jesus pleased with his action said to him, “your faith has made you whole. Gratitude completes your blessings by opening you up for more There are several other benefits of showing gratitude to God.

Gratitude is a strategic weapon to deploy in times of uncertainty. When you are faced with an overwhelming situation, and don’t know what to do, express gratitude to God by praising Him and thanking Him for all the things He has done for you. In 2 Chronicles 20, When King Jehoshaphat and the nation was faced with a battle against three kings, they praised God and The Almighty took over the battle.

Gratitude guards your heart with the peace of God that surpasses all understanding. Phil 4:6-8 says “be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God, and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus”.

Gratitude opens doors of blessings. Psalm 67:5-7 says, “let the people praise YOU O GOD, ……then, the earth shall yield her increase”. The best way to remind God of what He has not done is to thank Him for what he has done.

IN HIS PRESENCE is written by Pst (Mrs) Oke Chinye, Founder of The Rock Teaching Ministry (TRTM).

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