“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.”
Hebrews 12:28
When grief and sorrow are heavy, gratitude may feel like the most unnatural response. It rarely overflows from me when my heart is overwhelmed by the burdens of life. Yet God’s Word reminds us that gratitude anchors us to an unchanging reality. While our earthly circumstances are shifting sand, we are receiving an unshakeable kingdom. That’s a kingdom we all need!
Setting our hearts on gratitude doesn’t mean that we pretend the trial doesn’t exist. Thankfulness is not denial. Rather, we are declaring that the kingdom we are receiving is more real and more permanent than the pain we are enduring. We often wait for God to provide peace before we offer thanks, but Scripture suggests that a thankful heart brings peace. When we approach God in prayer with thanksgiving, His peace “will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7).
God is worthy of our worship no matter where we find ourselves today. In reverence and awe, we praise Him. We know that we are held fast by our God who remains firmly on His throne even while our world falls apart.
Setting our hearts on gratitude doesn’t mean that we pretend the trial doesn’t exist. Thankfulness is not denial. Rather, we are declaring that the kingdom we are receiving is more real and more permanent than the pain we are enduring. We often wait for God to provide peace before we offer thanks, but Scripture suggests that a thankful heart brings peace. When we approach God in prayer with thanksgiving, His peace “will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7).
God is worthy of our worship no matter where we find ourselves today. In reverence and awe, we praise Him. We know that we are held fast by our God who remains firmly on His throne even while our world falls apart.
Scripture Focus
Philippians 4:6-7
Insight
What is one thing today you can be thankful for during the hardship that is in your life?
Bible In A Year
- Job 21-22
- Psalm 53
- Luke 16