Do you feel like your life is missing something? Are you happy? Do you feel satisfied? Or, are you looking for something? Do you feel empty? Do you feel sad? Do you feel anxious? Do you feel worried about the future?

With world news at the tips of our fingers, it is easy to become anxious and/or depressed about all of the negative things happening in the world around us. Recently, we have seen so many people undergo the tragic loss of their loved ones and/or homes. It is natural to feel very sad and concerned about all that has/is happening around us. Needless to say, we don’t live in a perfect world where nothing bad ever happens and everything always goes as planned. Sometimes, we try to fill our broken hearts and restless minds with things that don’t heal or satisfy.
This may be because we live in a world of instant gratification. Entertainment is available at the touch of a button or at the command of Siri. Fast food is available within minutes. If we feel sad, anxious, or dissatisfied, we might find ourselves turning our eyes to physical possessions or human relationships. But, are holiday foods, black friday deals, a new car, new designer bags, new friends, a new significant other, or a new career the answer to this dilemma? Or are they just a futile attempt to fill an empty space?
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
-Philippians 4:4-7 NIV
Philippians 4:4-7 provides the answer to this dilemma. First, it reminds us that our joy is found in the Lord. Our joy is not found in our circumstances or what we have. If we look anywhere else, we will turn up empty and dissatisfied. No physical possessions, foods, or relationships can fill the God shaped hole within us. This scripture also reminds us not to allow the situations around us to make us anxious, but instead pray. But, how do we pray? “Our prayers must express gratitude. It is good to be watchful and to pray, but if our prayers are only lists of requests in which we pray for favors, our approach is wrong. We have so much to be thankful for that we won’t have much time for other topics once we start giving thanks.” ((Solly Ozrovech, A Season of Hope, p. June 14) And, thankfulness gives us confidence to present our request to God because it reminds us of what He has already done for us. Lastly, this scripture reminds us that we can only find the peace we desperately need in an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ.
“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.”
– Colossians 4:2 NIV
Dear Lord Jesus, please help us to devote ourselves to prayer so that we can develop a closer relationship with You. Please help us to share your love with those who are broken and in need. When life seems difficult, please remind us of Your unconditional love and fill our hearts with gratitude. Amen.
I invite you to start practicing thankfulness daily with the 21 Days of Thanksgiving. If you haven’t already started this challenge, it’s not too late! You can do it on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or via text message. Don’t miss out on the fun!


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