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Please Pass the Gratitude! - Encouragement Café - December 15, 2016

 

Please Pass the Gratitude!
By MindyLee Hopman
Thursday, December 15, 2016

Dear Children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.  This then is how we know that we belong to the truth, and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence.  1 John 3:18-19 NIV

As a mom, I realize my children learn best when their hearts are at rest.  Nervousness, anxiety, and worry distract from the learning process.  My job is to create a safe atmosphere where they thrive in my presence, because they understand how much I love each one of them. 

When distractions are eliminated, engaged learning takes place and the desire to serve others emerges.   I am a physical example to my children of what God does for those who spend time in His presence. 

In the presence of God our hearts may truly rest.  In His presence, we become fully aware of His amazingly great sacrifice. 

As a result of this sacrifice, our relationship with God is restored.  We are made complete and whole again.  We no longer cry out from under the lies we once believed in or for more of what we do not have.  We begin to live in the truth. 

Our hearts change from being dry, empty, and wanting, to being abundantly full and overflowing.  We thrive in His presence and we desire to serve. 

My hope is that in His presence you may begin to understand the depth and the breadth of His love.  May the gratitude you feel from the bottom of your heart overwhelm you so that you can’t help but pass it on or “pay it forward.” 

Sometimes passing along the gift of gratitude does not come with words, but rather by actions. 

As a result of God’s fullness in your heart, what will you do today to show others you live in the truth?  What will you do today, to bring others into His presence? 

Will you make a meal or stop by to see a friend?  Will you make your husband his favorite treat or listen a little longer to your children?

Take some time today to “Pass the Gratitude!” and allow others to see a glimpse of God in you.  When you pour into the lives of those you love, they will pour into the lives of others.

Dear Lord, I praise You and I love being in Your presence.  Thank You for the sacrifice you made for me on the cross. Thank You for helping my heart to rest in Your presence.  In a busy world, it is here that I find truth, grace, and mercy.  My heart is overwhelmingly grateful.  As it overflows with gratitude, may You present opportunities for me to serve.  In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

© 2013 by Mindy Lee Hopman.  All rights reserved.

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