Read: Psalm 16:5-11
Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices. (v. 9)
If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, you are currently experiencing winter. Winter includes colder temperatures and less daylight. Along with the lack of warmth and sunshine, you might also feel discouraged in this season following the conclusion of the Thanksgiving and Christmas season.
Yet believers in Jesus have so much to be thankful for throughout the year. In Psalm 16, David mentions many reasons why he could give thanks despite the challenges he was facing in his life. He knew that God was present, faithful, providing, and protecting. He sought to keep his eyes on the Lord (v. 8) and as a result, his heart was glad and his tongue rejoiced (v. 9).
As you read Psalm 16:5-11, did you echo David’s thoughts and words for your own life? So often we keep our eyes on what others have, we put our trust in earthly things that don’t last, and we complain about all that is wrong in the world and in our life.
Perhaps a key biblical resolution for you in the year ahead is to live with an attitude of gratitude. Focus on the good, remember that God is faithful, praise God in the pleasant times as well as the hard times, express gratitude to God and others. Thanksgiving isn’t just a holiday to be observed once a year, but an action and attitude for each new day.
As you pray, express gratitude to God and ask him to help you live with an attitude of gratitude.
About the Author
Rev. Steve Petroelje is a specialized transition pastor who serves vacant churches and helps them assess health, pursue missional effectiveness, and conduct a pastoral search process. He is the past-president of the Words of Hope Board of Trustees.
