Gratitude

I am God Most High! The only sacrifice I want is for you to be thankful and to keep your word. – Psalm 50:14

November is a month that people tend to be more aware of the things they are thankful for. Lists are made, posts are written and stories are shared at the dinner table, all in the spirit of Thanksgiving.

Gratitude brings true honor to God and we should be thankful for all His blessings, His provision, the beauty of nature, His love and His forgiveness.

Today’s passage challenged me to go deeper. The NIV translation reads, “Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High.” It’s easy to join in the spirit of the season and relect on what we are thankful for, but the verse goes on to say fulfill your vows.

Our vow to God was made when we confessed Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of our lives and committed to following Him. That committment was lifelong, not seasonal. The Lord was very clear in 1 Samuel 15:22 that to obey is better than sacrifice.

When God hears our words of thanksgiving, are they followed up by action? When He hears our praises, are they accompanied by loving service to others?

Remember what Christ taught, and let his words enrich your lives and make you wise; teach them to each other and sing them out in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing to the Lord with thankful hearts. (Colossians 3:16) In this way we fulfill our vows to God and give Him the praise and honor He deserves.