encouragement.

Tis’ the season for thanks and giving! I just love the holidays. There’s something about this time of year that brings in a wave of sweet nostalgia, and it feels like the world seems to slow down a bit. Everyone seems to hit pause, and takes the time to focus on what’s really important – their faith, family and friends. It’s such a breath of fresh air in a culture that is so fast paced and “me” centered. Today, I want us to do just that – to slow down, take the focus off of ourselves and give thanks to our Heavenly Father for who He is, and for all that He has done in our lives. What better way to showcase our gratitude than to offer up words that are God breathed? Here are five verses we can meditate on this week as we lift up praises to the Lord!

Come, let’s shout praises to God, raise the roof for the Rock who saved us! Let’s march into his presence singing praises, lifting the rafters with our hymns!

 Psalm 95:1-2

On your feet now—applaud God! Bring a gift of laughter, sing yourselves into his presence.

 Psalm 100:1-2

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.

1 Chronicles 16:34

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 3:17

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

Lord,

Thank you for all of the blessings you pour out on us every single day. You continuously pour out grace and compassion, and that’s unlike any other love we’ve ever known. Thank you for the gift of your son, Jesus, and the unbelievable opportunity to spend eternity with him. You are a good, good Father, and we are so grateful for who you are. All thanks be to you, God. We love you. Amen.