April 16, 2026

Gratitude is praise. Sincere thankfulness is worship. God longs for us to see His hand, His blessings in our lives. Today as we enjoy the evidence of springtime, the flowers, the vibrant green of new leaves, blue skies and a sunny promise of warm days ahead, thank God for all He pours out for us. We are blessed. With families. Friends. Relationships. Church. Freedom to worship. Freedom of speech. Freedom to travel around our country.

The opposite of thankfulness is an attitude that we ourselves generated our blessings or, worse, we deserve nothing less. Once we decide we create our own miracles, that we are the only God we need, God likely allows us to take over.

Count your blessings. An attitude of gratitude makes us long to bless others as we have been blessed. Share with others. Share joy. Patience. Smiles. Say, “God bless you.” Look for the wonder in every encounter. Thank God for opportunities to pray for others and spread His promises everywhere you go.

Father, Thank You for beautiful days. For seasons. For sunshine and rain and all the forces that make gardens grow. Thank You for laughter and hugs and happiness so huge we shiver in delight. Thank You for creativity and perseverance, for character that inspires us to love others and to help them when they are in need.

Also, let Christ’s peace control you. God has called you into this peace by bringing you into one body. Be thankful. Colossians 3:15