Thanks

"But giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honors me." (Psalm 50:23)

That's a peculiar way to think of thanksgiving . . . a sacrifice.  A sacrifice is generally something that we give up--a treasure that we give away.  Perhaps giving thanks is a sacrifice of heart.  Instead of getting irritated with those who don't meet my expectations, I will give thanks to the God who created them.  Instead of fearing the future, I will thank God for it.  Instead of swimming in shame and regret, I will give thanks to the God of forgiveness and restoration.  What if I choose to begin every sentence today with, "Thank you God . . ."

“I pray for you, that all your misgivings will be melted to thanksgivings. Remember that the shadow a thing casts often far exceeds the size of the thing itself (especially if the light be low on the horizon) and though some future fear may strut brave darkness as you approach, the thing itself will be but a speck when seen from beyond. Oh that He would restore us often with that 'aspect from beyond,' to see a thing as He sees it, to remember that He dealeth with us as with sons.”   --Jim Elliot