Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- November 22, 2010
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 5:18-20
A heart controlled by the Holy Spirit is grateful, as the gene of gratitude is in the DNA of a disciple of Jesus Christ. Once the Spirit of God vaccinates the soul with gratitude it prevents the virus of discontentment and complaining to control a life. Gone is murmuring and it is replaced with an appreciative attitude that is helpful and hopeful.
“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other” (Galatians 5:24-26).
Anyone can define the obvious of a difficult situation, but a positive problem solver is able to bring prayerful and thoughtful solutions to bear. So, in the work environment, it’s imperative we engage associates who are able to bring new information to the discussion and share with other team members fresh insights and deep discernment. Gratitude grows those around it to be thankful and intentional in developing valuable and creative ideas.
Gratitude is able to navigate around relational ruts and get to the bottom of real issues. We want to be around people grateful to God—because it is infectious. You can see it in the calm of their countenance, you can hear it in their soothing speech and you can feel it in the positive energy of their emotions. Indeed, gratitude governs people to serve people.
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts” (Colossians 3:16).
Worship to God bursts forth from a grateful heart captured by Christ. When you reflect on the richness of your salvation in Jesus, your heart and soul lifts praise and thanksgiving to the Lord. It may be a joyful noise—but you need not worry—because Almighty God looks at the heart, not your harmony. A melody of grateful praise to your Master Jesus brings joy. So, sing out in worship with a smile on your face and a song in your heart.
“But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. I will say, ‘Salvation comes from the LORD’” (Jonah 2:9).
Am I controlled by the Holy Spirit or by the enemy’s lies? Am I a grateful worshiper?
Related Readings: Psalm 100:1; 147:7; Acts 24:2-4; Romans 16:4
Boyd Bailey is the author of Wisdom Hunters daily devotional and two devotional books, Infusion and Seeking Daily the Heart of God
