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A Sacrifice That Shifts the Heart

We have been talking about the importance of gratitude. We can all tell the difference in the atmosphere when the person we are with is constantly complaining or giving thanks. I think we could unanimously agree that we prefer being in the presence of someone who is grateful.

It is difficult to be focused on God when you are grumbling and complaining.

Praise ushers in the presence of the Lord.

Psalm 100:4 tells us to:
“Enter His gates with thanksgiving;
go into His courts with praise.
Give thanks to Him and praise His name.”
When we go before the Lord with our thanks and our praise, whatever circumstance that is troubling us seems less important. Praise and thanksgiving do not always come naturally. Most of the time we have to be intentional in turning our focus from our problem to the goodness of God.

That is why our praise is called a sacrifice in Hebrews 13:15:
“Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.”

When we bring a sacrifice of praise—our determined, intentional decision to praise Him in the midst of whatever is going on—it shifts our attitude and our resolve. We become more aware of His presence. We become more aware of His goodness, and are able to trust Him more readily in the situation.

This week, as we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving with our family and friends, be intentional to find things to be thankful for.

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