Hi Brian!
The word for this week is "thankful". I can't believe that we haven't used that one over all these years! We'll be looking at these verses in the New Testament:
Romans 1:20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: 21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. KJV
Colossians 3:14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. 15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. KJV
In Romans we have the Greek word "eucharisteo". Strong's Concordance says: to be grateful, to express gratitude towards. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: to give thanks. In Colossians we have the Greek word "eucharistos". Strong's Concordance says: well favored, grateful. Thayer's Greek Lexicon says: mindful of favors, grateful, thankful to God. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: gracious, agreeable, thankful. Then we have Psalm 100:4:
Psalm 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. KJV
In this reference we find the Hebrew word "yadah". Strong's Concordance says: To use, to hold out the hand, to to revere or worship with extended hands, intensively. Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon says: to give thanks, to laud, to praise. Vine's Expository Dictionary says: This word is found frequently in the Book of Psalms as an expression of thanks or praise. The Theological Dictionary says: to acknowledge, to extol.
Gratitude to God for all of the blessings in our lives comes so naturally when we have spent time in His presence and in His Word! We are better able to recognize the blessings then! After spending over 40 years in the Word and in His presence, I have grown to appreciate His hand in so many areas and in extraordinary ways! There are many things that I thank Him for every day. You, Kristine and your lovely ladies are one of those BLESSINGS that I am so very thankful for! I know that we don't get to see you all as much as we used to, but we pray for you every day and keep up with all of the wonderful and exciting things that happen. We also keep up with the times that call for extra prayer and agreement! Thank you all for including us and making us feel like family! I pray that you all have a wonderful and very BLESSED family time this Thanksgiving, making memories and having fun! Today I am going to share a song that Roxy shared with us that is so uplifting and fun! "Praise" by "Elevation Worship":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
