It Is Good to Be Thankful: Appreciation makes the world a better place…
When we accept Jesus as our Savior, we become a new person. (1 Corinthians 5:17) We forsake our old ways and embrace our new life in Christ. (Ephesians 4:22) However, this does not happen instantly. It is a life-long process which includes the renewing of our minds. (Ephesians 4:23-24) This mind renewal is a continuation of the work God began in us, so we can grow in grace and knowledge to become more like Christ. (Colossians 2:9-10)
The Bible speaks a lot about renewing our minds. Romans 12:2 tells us not to conform to the world around us, but be transformed into the new creation by the renewing of our minds. Renewing our minds must include daily contact with God. Therefore, we must make space for God in our lives or we drift back to how we used to be. Plus, consistent contact with God is the only way we can stay spiritually strong.
A mighty oak tree only lives and thrives because its needs are being supplied. It drinks water and feeds on nutrients from the soil. Christians can only be spiritually strong through a relationship with God, the source of everything we need. Spiritual renewal is why Paul could say, “Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.” (1 Corinthians 4:16).
Our spiritual lives cannot be sustained without daily renewal from God. Our bodies are replenished when we stay hydrated and eat nourishing food. Our souls gain strength by continuously feeding on God’s Word. Without this renewal, we are not equipped to withstand trials and problems we face. Without this renewal, the new creation we became in Christ will weaken, waste away, and wither.
How we approach this daily renewal can make a big difference in how effective it is. Do we look forward to reading God’s Word or consider it an arduous duty? Do we ask God for joy when we pray or just present Him with a list of what we want? Do we see God’s hand in what is all around us or take blessings for granted?
I’m thankful God has offered me an opportunity to grow closer to Him day by day. His mercies are brand new everyday. (Lamentations 3:22-23) My desire to be renewed should be brand new everyday as well. It’s the only way my relationship with God can stay fresh, alive, vibrant, and relevant. Enjoying our daily renewal time with God allows us to thrive, not just survive.
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“It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord...” ~ Psalms 92:1 (KJV)
