students of jesus

The more I think about it, I’m beginning to discover there’s a difference between giving thanks and having a thankful heart. I’m also beginning to discover that the Father cares more about thankfulness flowing from the inside out than obedience we wear like a cheap suit.

Rather than hearing thankfulness as a command, perhaps we can hear it as an invitation:

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. Colossians 3: 15-16)

Who wouldn’t want a heart like that?

Ask Yourself: Like I said -- Who wouldn’t want a heart like that?

Live Into It: Use this passage from Colossians as an inventory. Get real with yourself: how much of this verse describes me right now? Can you hear the passive side of Paul's admonition, "Let . . ." In truth, we couldn't accomplish the new birth on our own, perhaps we need help from God's side to develop a thankful heart. Jesus--are you listening? How does that happen?