Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe.” – Hebrews 12:28
Pure delight filled our son’s face when he opened a particular Christmas gift years ago. My husband and I had purchased a Nintendo game system for our boys. Smiles and hugs ensued. Our eldest son’s overt display of gratitude particularly filled us with joy. Of course, our other two sweet boys were also ecstatic. But something about Everett’s response–perhaps his bright eyes shining in wonder–stands out to me to this day.
Gratitude.
I tend to think about this quality in terms of thankfulness for clothing, food, and shelter. For good health and a loving family … the opportunity to know God and share His truths with others.
Yes, I’m genuinely thankful for all the above. But God is stretching my view: a kingdom?! Wait just a minute! Receiving a kingdom is far beyond anything this world contains. Receiving a kingdom completely awes me.
God is on His throne and the Lord Jesus Christ sits at His right hand. Right now. This is the kingdom all of God’s people belong to. By faith now, but one day by sight. For all eternity, we’ll be with Him–basking in His love and living in His light.
Gratitude … the more we understand what God has secured for us through Christ … how can we let a day go by without an enormous sense of gratitude? It shapes the way we worship our great God. It reminds us that the God we serve is MAJESTIC, GLORIOUS, AND FULL OF SPLENDOR. THE KING OF kings AND LORD OF lords.
LIKE. NO. OTHER.
Wherever we are … whatever we’re doing … let’s show our gratitude to the one true God who knows us … and loves us.
“… He who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords; who alone possesses immortality and dwells in unapproachable light; whom no man has seen or can see. To Him be honor and eternal dominion! Amen.” – 1 Timothy 6:15-16
Amen. I am finding in my own life how much my gratitude towards the Lord softens me and makes my heart tender. And I know that when others interact with this tender and grateful heart , they experience Him through me. Sweet words Emily. Thanks.
You are so right. Thanks for sharing, dear Jackie!