Gratitude PART THREE: Authentic Expression
By Jessica Jeans
When I think about giving thanks, I wonder how to show God my appreciation in a real way.
How can I even find the time to think about gratitude when I’m in the midst of family chaos or stress, especially during this holiday season? All I can think about is that I’m out of cash, alone or in pain.
TIPS TO FIND AUTHENTIC THANKFULNESS
When you’re anxious this holiday, instead of dishing out commands, change your expectations about where or on whom you can rely. Sometimes, you might find that you need to let go of what you can’t control. Ask God to bring you peace through a new perspective, then you can thank Him because He brings us through every storm.
Instead of reacting when you’re upset, take a minute to vent in a safe place. Then focus on a specific ask when you need change from someone. If they will not or cannot give you whaat you asked for, strategize how to get it a different way. There are actually many ways to get what we need. Thank God for courage to ask, and insight for a new strategy.
Try talking to God about your fears early in the day so that later you’re not running around like a chicken with your head cut off. You are ready for whatever comes. Even before your day begins, thank God that no matter your plans, He establishes your steps (Proverbs). Being thankful for His answers before we even see them will bring intimacy between you and God. He sees you!
As an example, in the Bible, David had many roles throughout his life. He was a shepherd as a young teenager, then became a military general at a young age. He proved his wisdom and devotion to his country and became the King. From early on, he learned to talk to God about everything: reflections on his life, hardships, celebrations, desperation, anxiety, confusion, desire for vindication, search for happiness, doubt, fear while being overcome by attack and many thanks for help during battles. He learned to give and receive forgiveness and had a desire for success, which he defined as living a righteous life before God. He expressed to God everything He felt!
When we continually connect with Him in this way, acknowledging our emotions and seeking His fellowship…we get intimacy.
When we feel connected, we will see that our expectations have been met or exceeded. This is the moment we can authentically express gratitude. It flows from our heart. Our expression may be quiet and private or it can be messy, just letting the words flow.
HOW TO EXPRESS OUR GRATITUDE
Perhaps it would be helpful to read through the book of Psalm in the Bible. It is compiled of mostly short chapters which were his prayers throughout his life. It’s to all happy and positive. He shred ALL his thoughts.
There is something about sharing our emotions that brings joy. We express it may ways. For me, it’s singing at the top of my lungs and letting the feeling overtake me. For others it’s journaling, or prayer with morning jog and headphones. For some it’s creating art in a garage and for others it’s humming while cooking. How do you express your joy?
Don’t compare your expression to somebody else’s. There is no righteous type of praise. Remember, we can’t make ourselves more worthy than we already are. He wants our authentic selves. Dance while you cook. Giggle when you’re glad. Sing whatever comes out. Hum. Draw. Write. Sing, Paint. Play. Ponder. Talk to Him.
When you reflect on His goodness in your life, you will notice that you feel joy. The emotion of joy needs to share. Share your joy with Him. He delights in you. You may feel Him smile.
You might be thinking you don’t express your grattitude often enough. Maybe you think you don’t sing well enough. You might be saying, “I’m not an artist.” “I can’t pray.” Don’t look at your inadequacy and succumb to the enemy’s condemnation.
Those are lies. You can pray. You can talk to God. You can create art and express your joy- by just letting your gratitude overflow. It is your little girl that wants to express. She knows how to do it.
WHY EXPRESS OUR GRATITUDE
Praise leads us into the light. Joy in the Lord brings light. Delight in Him and reflect on all that He has done! You will feel His light shining on you.
We praise Him because it resets our perspective. It becomes a gift to us while it’s an offering to Him. We give and He receives, while also, He gives back to us and we receive more joy, more love, and more connection from Him.
Today, take some time to give thanks to Him and see what He gives to you in return!
🎶
