Give THANKS to God
July 22, 2015 Year B
It is the middle of the summer, so the idea of a harvest time when one gives thanks for a great crop seems a bit far away. However, it is still a great practice to give thanks to God. He is worthy of our gratitude even when we are not reminded by a holiday. One might think: how can I give thanks to God?
This psalm describes six different ways one can give thanks to God. Let’ use the acronym THANKS to show this:
T – Triumphantly shout to God (Psalm 100:1).
“Shout triumphantly to the Lord, all the earth.” (Psalm 100:1, HCSB)
H – Happily serve God (Psalm 100:2)
“Serve the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs.” (Psalm 100:2, HCSB)
A – Acknowledge God as my God (Psalm 100:3)
“Acknowledge that Yahweh is God. He made us, and we are His — His people, the sheep of His pasture.” (Psalm 100:3, HCSB)
N – Name God as my security and in my worship (Psalm 100:3-4)
“Acknowledge that Yahweh is God. He made us, and we are His — His people, the sheep of His pasture. Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and praise His name.” (Psalm 100:3–4, HCSB)
K – Kneel in a prayer of gratitude (Psalm 100:4)
“Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and praise His name.” (Psalm 100:4, HCSB)
S – Show God’s goodness to others (Psalm 100:5)
“For Yahweh is good, and His love is eternal; His faithfulness endures through all generations.” (Psalm 100:5, HCSB)
Giving thanks to God is an attitude that requires practice. It is part of a practice of prayer in which everyone can be involved.
Prayer: God, I want to thank You for how You have been faithful to me. Thank You for Your goodness and love.