starting with "Thank You"

Tuesday, December 31, 2019 (8:24 a.m.)
Lake Arrowhead, CA

Holy God,

I’m going to start with “Thank You” and see where it takes us. Yes. Thank You Father.

Thank You for love. And peace. And joy. And all the fruit that stems from being controlled by the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22).

Thank You. Mm. Yes. Thank You.

I had a list of momentary fusses. As I delve more deeply into the Freedom in Christ (Galatians 5:1-15) we have in Living by the Spirit’s Power (vs. 16-26) I don’t even care to remember what they were.

I am awestruck by the wording I find in The Message. “But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard - things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.”

I experience a smidgeon of these on occasion. And I have YOU to thank for it all.

Yes Father. Thank You for the blessings upon blessings You continuously bestow [heap] upon us. It truly is in You that “we live, and move, and have our being” (Acts 17:28). Oh praise and thank You God!

I get to start with a simple “Thank You” and You provide so much. Yesterday it was snow for two little boys when the weather reports said otherwise. This morning it is further affirmation of Your love and care for each of us.

And that’s really it isn’t it? We get to love You and others because You first loved us (1 John 4:19). Thank You Lord.

Thank You for all You came to give us. “Things like affection for others, exuberance about life…” Freedom in You!

Let me experience and use that freedom well. For Your glory and the good of others. I love You. I need You. I thank and want You. Use me as You know is best. This I pray in Jesus’ name. Thank You. Amen.

(384 words ~ 9:15 a.m.)