TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8
Listen: Philippians 4
TODAY’S MESSAGE
It is easy to ask God for help when things are going wrong. We are quick to go our heavenly Father and plead for help when our world is turned upside-down, or life is rapidly spinning out of control. And we should as Paul tells us in Philippians 4:6. But what if we accompany our pleas for help with thanks for what is going right? Admittedly, this can be difficult to do. That is why it’s so important.
A life characterized by “more joy” and “less anxiety” must include both pleas and thanks in our prayers to God. This is important especially when we are going through some ugly space—a rebellious and defiant child, a season of financial scarcity, a battle to beat cancer or a job that has become unbearable. In challenging times, it is critical we develop this important habit.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Today, add three more unique things you are grateful for to your Thankfulness List. You should now have six (or nine, if you started Sunday). Then, especially if you are in one of those ugly spaces, spend whatever time is necessary to list everything you can think of for which you’re thankful. Get alone and take your time. To prompt your thinking, use today’s verses and the video clip below from Senior Pastor Jeff Manion about Eric. Don’t be afraid to fill pages if necessary. When you finish, put the list where you can easily access it during these days. Continually remind yourself of God’s goodness even amid the mess.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
