Scripture

Our verse for today comes from John 8:56, “Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day, and he saw it and was glad.”

Background

Every morning, the first words I utter to God are, “Thank you for this day.” And even throughout the morning and on into the evening, whatever prayers I might say often begin with thanking Him for today. Much of this, I think, was just a habit I picked up somewhere along the way, like saying “in Jesus’ name” at the end of the prayer. But when my mom died, the act of thanking God for this day became much more significant. Now, I can’t say those words without picturing my mom’s body lying there, unable to thank Him for what I take so much for granted. And that has changed me. Whereas before, I thanked God for today and knew it was a gift, I now am thankful to God for this day, and I am treating it like a gift. And for me, those two frames of mind are worlds apart. Since I’m thankful and have received a gift, why would I want to spoil it or flush it down the toilet? Why would I choose to criticize and tarnish the minutes as they tick away? Imagine that, learning after all these years that I’m supposed to encourage and support my wife and kids instead of criticize them. And yes, because I love them and they are my family and God’s creation, but also because that’s what God made this day for.

Application

Today, we have 24 hours to spend as we choose. God has done His part. He has given us this day. But some of us aren’t truly thankful for it. We’re glad to be alive, but we are angry about some part of our life. So saying thanks for today rings untrue for you. But without being morbid, let me ask you to imagine how different it could be. Think for a moment of how much worse today could have begun. More importantly, think of how dreadful the day could end were it not for a loving Savior. We’ve all sincerely been thankful for something, so we know what it’s like. At least once in our lives we’ve been given a gift that completely blew us away. That is the awe and gratitude that turns your ordinary day into the gift He intends for it to be. So, say thank you, and be thankful. And enjoy the gift as it was meant to be enjoyed.

Charge

As we seek Him today, try not to take the blessings of today for granted. Consider all that God is doing for you each minute, and thank Him from a grateful heart.

Salvation – Eternal Life in Less Than 150 Words