The Power of Simple Gratitude - Your Nightly Prayer - July 26th

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The Power of Simple Gratitude
Your Nightly Prayer
by Alicia Searl

TONIGHT’S SCRIPTURE

"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever." - Psalm 107:1

SOMETHING TO PONDER

Tonight, I invite you to pause, take a deep breath, and reflect on your day. From the moment you woke up and started with a cup of coffee or morning stroll, to the events that unfolded mid to late afternoon, to the highlights and heavy lows, to the whispers of the evening that have you now placing your eyes here before you drift off to sleep. What stood out to you the most? Were there times today that caught you off guard? Maybe a moment that brought great joy or disappointing sorrow. Did the busyness of the day cause you to crumble into bed with a final sigh of relief? Or maybe the checklist is still currently playing on repeat in your mind, sabotaging your ability to peacefully calm down. Just breathe. Breathe in deep. Let it out slowly. And again.

Thankfully, no matter what the day held, we can rest assured that we have a good and gracious God that held us today and will take us into tomorrow with the promise of his goodness and enduring love (Psalm 107:1). A love that never fails, always provides, and is so very good (Philippians 4:19). Just like any good Father, our God extends a love for us that is so pure, genuine, compassionate, and ultimately sacrificial (1 John 4:10). A love that gently speaks to the nature of our weary hearts, wondering minds, and wrestles souls, commanding us to rest – in Him (Matthew 11:28-30). Where the world, people, and certain circumstances will let us down, God never will (Deuteronomy 31:8). That is worth rejoicing in and praising His holy name. As you drift off to sleep, ease your mind with a place of gratitude and bring comfort to your heart as you give our loving God all your thanks and praise.

Dear believer, if you are feeling weighed down by the pressures of this world or growing concerned for what a new day holds, pause and reflect on the goodness of God. From the simple moments to the bigger picture, give God your gracious heart and soak in the wonders of His love. Allow His steady and constant goodness to wrap you in peace as you snuggle up, settle in, and place your head on that pillow tonight.

YOUR NIGHTLY PRAYER

Loving Father,
Thank you for another day. A day I was able to wake up and see the goodness of Your steadfast love. As I reflect on my day, I can see how You moved in, graciously provided for, and protected me. Thank you for Your mighty provision and precious presence. I am so grateful for Your love and the opportunity to honor and serve You with my life. I love you.
Amen.

THREE THINGS TO MEDITATE UPON

Name three ways God met you in the simple moments today. How can that offer you peace?
If there is an area in your life that is bringing you worry or pain, how can you hand it to God and receive His goodness and enduring love?
Consider jotting down your thoughts in a journal at night and then allowing God to meet you as you pour out a heart of gratitude.

Reflect on tonight’s prayer and share how God met you there. Join the Your Nightly Prayer discussion on the Crosswalk Forum.
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Marjan Apostolovic

Alicia Searl is a devotional author, blogger, and speaker that is passionate about pouring out her heart and pointing ladies of all ages back to Jesus. She has an education background and master’s in literacy. Her favorite people call her Mom, which is why much of her time is spent cheering them on at a softball game or dance class. She is married to her heartthrob (a tall, spiky-haired blond) who can whip up a mean latte. She sips that goodness while writing her heart on a page while her puppy licks her feet. Visit her website at aliciasearl.com and connect with her on Instagram and Facebook.

For the one who is weary without answers. If you’re still showing up and still praying — but starting to wonder if it’s working — this 90-day devotional will meet you right there, with honesty and Scripture in place of easy answers.