Living a life full of praise

Let’s begin declaring thanks again.

Let us enter into a season where the meaning of thankfulness actually has merit again, and the word “thanks” is no longer used as an afterthought without true drive behind it.

In Hebrew, the word "Hakarat HaTov" means grateful, which translates roughly to, “extend the joy of receiving to others and to God.”

When is the last time we thanked somebody, or thanked God in a certain way, that the impact is even greater upon the giver than it is upon the receiver? That is why in Acts 20:35, the apostle Paul states, “it is more blessed to give than to receive.”

I want to be a part of that blessing. I want people to walk away encouraged when they give me a gift, or do me a favor, in a way that I know that the gift I give through my gratefulness, matches that of the gift given to me. And if that is the case, how much more grateful, how much more should we seek to bless and honor the Father in heaven, for the gift of His son, Jesus, sacrificed for us?

Let us in this time make ourselves a true offering to God, living a life full of praise, obedience, trust, faith, and a reckless gratefulness for what He has done for us. Let’s also note this, thankfulness should not, cannot be influenced by the things going on around us, for it is relative to the revelation of who God is, and not relative to our circumstances. As King David wrote a larger portion of the book of Psalms, he was running, afraid, fighting for his life, or walking a road of redemption that was riddled with repentance and challenges, and yet, each one was centered on praise, honor, and glory to the Father, circumstances aside.

So I say, and write this with all sincerity and encourage each of you to do the same, “Thank you Lord, for the sacrifice that your son Jesus made for me, lead me in a way each day that honors and brings Glory to you, Amen.”

Justin Gardner pastors at River of Life Fellowship, 702 Church St., Sandpoint. The church can be reached at 208-255-7111.