Life Journal January 17, 2008
Today's readings: Genesis 42, 43; Psalm 5; Luke 17

A Simple Thank You

Scripture

As Jesus continued on toward Jerusalem, he reached the border between Galilee and Samaria. As he entered a village there, ten lepers stood at a distance, crying out, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!"

He looked at them and said, "Go show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, their leprosy disappeared.

One of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back to Jesus, shouting, "Praise God, I'm healed!" He fell face down on the ground at Jesus' feet, thanking him for what he had done. This man was a Samaritan.

Jesus asked, "Didn't I heal ten men? Where are the other nine? Does only this foreigner return to give glory to God?" And Jesus said to the man, "Stand up and go. Your faith has made you well."

Luke 17.11-19

Observation

It is important to recognize all that God does for us . . . and say "Thank you!" and praise Him.

Application (How will I be different today because of what I have just read?)

How often do I forget to say thank you to God? How often do I take for granted what He does for me--almost like I deserve His blessings. How simple it is to thank Him for all He does for me. How important it is for me to praise Him for what He has done for me rather than focus on what He hasn't done yet.

We teach our children manners. . . . . yet, we are so slow to thank God for His many, many blessings. I wonder how much more God would bless us, answer our prayers, pour out on us if we just took the time to praise Him, worship Him . . . . . thank Him.

Philippians 4.6 says "Don't worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all He has done."

Prayer

Lord, forgive me for not appreciating and saying thank You for all You do for me. Forgive me for taking You for granted, or for treating You as a prayer request vending machine. Lord, You do so much for me and bless me in so many ways. May I always be found coming back to You to praise You and to say Thank You. May I remember to always be thank-filled, especially when You answer my prayers Your way and not mine--knowing that I can trust You. Thank You for loving me so very much. In Jesus name . . .