Appreciation

Romans 7:24-25 – Oh what a terrible predicament I'm in! Who will free me from my slavery to this deadly lower nature? Thank God! It has been done by Jesus Christ our Lord. (TLB)

For some months now, my grandson, who earlier underwent surgery to remove a tumour on his brain, has been living with me. The recovery has sometimes been difficult. Last week, a series of problems in my own life left me discouraged and disappointed.

Then, toward the end of a trying week, he came to me and offered a gift of money. I asked, "What is that for?" He replied, "To show my appreciation."

It was as if the clouds in the sky suddenly disappeared and the sun burst forth!

I replied, "Your appreciation means more to me than your money."

What a difference a gesture of appreciation makes! This incident raised a question in my mind about when I last spoke a word of appreciation to my heavenly Father for all He has done for me. To Him I owe my recovery from sin, guilt, and remorse. I hope this note will be that word to Him, and a reminder to all of us that God, too, must delight in our acknowledgement of our great debt to Him in Christ. Not only does such a word delight the heart of God, but it also makes our own hearts lighter too.

Prayer: Thank you, God, for all Your gifts to us. We thank You for life, for Your providential care, for supplying all our needs, and most of all, for redemption through Your son, Jesus. Through Him, we live without shame or regret, with a shining hope for all our tomorrows, and with the hope of life eternal in Your presence. Amen.

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