Giving Thanks Always

FAITH BOOSTER:

Giving Thanks Always[Nov. 26,2020]

WORD OF FAITH:

Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done.Isaiah 12:4

Also Isaiah 12(NIV)

In the seventeenth century, Martin Rinkart served as a clergyman in Saxony, Germany, for more than thirty years during times of war and plague. One year he conducted more than 4,000 funerals, including his wife’s, and at times food was so scarce that his family went hungry. Although he could have despaired, his faith in God remained strong and he gave thanks continually. In fact, he poured his gratitude into “Nun danket alle Gott,” the song that became the well-loved English hymn, “Now Thank We All Our God.”

Rinkart followed the example of the prophet Isaiah, who instructed God’s people to give thanks at all times, including when they’d disappointed God (Isaiah 12:1) or when enemies oppressed them. Even then they were to exalt God’s name, making “known among the nations what he has done” (v. 4).

We might give thanks easily during harvest celebrations such as Thanksgiving, when we’re enjoying an abundant feast with friends and family. But can we express our gratitude to God in difficult times, such as when we’re missing someone from our table or when we’re struggling with our finances or when we’re locked in conflict with one close to us?

Let’s echo Pastor Rinkart, joining hearts and voices as we give praise and thanks to “the eternal God, whom earth and Heaven adore.” We can “sing to the Lord, for he has done glorious things” (v. 5).

 QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION:

• In times of hardship, how do you turn to thanksgiving and praise?
• What role does God through His Holy Spirit play in this?

PRAYER OF FAITH:

Father God, I thank You for Your amazing work in my life. You love me unendingly, more than I can even express.

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Instruments of Peace

FAITH BOOSTER:

Instruments of Peace[Nov. 21,2020]

WORD OF FAITH:

Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness. James 3:18

Also James 3:13–18(NIV)

When World War I erupted in 1914, British statesman Sir Edward Grey declared, “The lamps are going out all over Europe; we shall not see them lit again in our lifetime.” Grey was right. When the “war to end all wars” finally ended, some 20 million had been killed (10 million of them civilians) and another 21 million injured.

While not on the same scale or magnitude, devastation can also occur in our personal lives. Our home, workplace, church, or neighborhood can also be shrouded by the dark specter of conflict. This is one of the reasons God calls us to be difference-makers in the world. But to do so we must rely on His wisdom. The apostle James wrote, “The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness” (James 3:17–18).

The role of peacemaker is significant because of its harvest. The word righteousness means “right standing” or “right relationship.” Peacemakers can help restore relationships. No wonder Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9). His children, relying on His wisdom, become instruments of His peace where it’s needed most.

 QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION:

• In what personal conflicts do you need the light of God’s wisdom?
• How can His peace enable you to be a peacemaker when people around you choose to fight?

PRAYER OF FAITH:

Father, Your light penetrates the deepest darkness and Your peace calms the most troubled heart. Help me know Your wisdom and peace and carry it to others in their struggles as well.

For More Teachings And Articles Visit Our Website: https://www.wmtlc.org