In what ways can we "give thanks to the LORD" as Psalm 118:19 suggests? Opening the Gate: Jesus Makes Thanksgiving Possible Psalm 118:19 looks forward to the “gates of righteousness.” Jesus declares, “I am the gate; whoever enters through Me will be saved” (John 10:9). Because He grants us access to the Father, every act of thanksgiving starts with trusting Christ’s finished work. • Receive His righteousness by faith (2 Corinthians 5:21). • Approach God confidently, knowing the way is open (Hebrews 10:19–22). • Begin every thanksgiving by acknowledging the cross that opened the gate. Heartfelt Praise—Lips That Celebrate the LORD “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise, the fruit of lips that confess His name” (Hebrews 13:15). Practical ways: • Speak or sing Scripture‐based praise (Ephesians 5:19–20; Psalm 100:4). • Keep a gratitude journal, recording daily mercies (Psalm 9:1). • Verbally bless Him before meals, travels, decisions—“always giving thanks…for everything” (Ephesians 5:20). Public Worship—Entering Courts Together Thanksgiving is amplified when believers gather (Psalm 35:18). • Attend corporate worship faithfully, adding your voice to congregational praise (Psalm 111:1). • Share testimonies of answered prayer to encourage others (Psalm 107:2). • Participate in the Lord’s Supper with a grateful heart, remembering His covenant (1 Corinthians 11:24–26). Obedient Living—Gratitude in Action “Whatever you do…do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks” (Colossians 3:17). • Offer your body as a “living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1)—holiness is a thank-offering. • Practice integrity at work or school as service to Him (Colossians 3:23). • Submit daily choices to His Word, showing that His will is good (Psalm 119:44). Generosity—Thanksgiving That Overflows to Others “This service…is also overflowing in many expressions of thanksgiving to God” (2 Corinthians 9:12). • Give financially to gospel ministries and the needy, prompting more praise to God. • Volunteer time and skills in your church and community (1 Peter 4:10–11). • Offer hospitality; shared meals foster thankful hearts (Romans 12:13). Witness—Making His Deeds Known “Give thanks to the LORD…make His deeds known among the nations” (1 Chronicles 16:8). • Tell unbelieving friends what God has done for you (Mark 5:19). • Use social media to highlight His faithfulness rather than grumble. • Support missions that spread the gospel, extending thanksgiving worldwide. Continual Mindset—Thanks in Every Circumstance “Rejoice at all times, pray without ceasing, give thanks in every circumstance” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). • Train yourself to see God’s hand in hardship (Romans 8:28). • Replace complaints with specific praises (Philippians 2:14-15). • End each day recounting at least three ways God was gracious. Living Psalm 118:19 is more than words; it is a lifestyle. Enter the gate through Christ, lift grateful hearts and voices, and let every aspect of life declare, “Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His loving devotion endures forever” (Psalm 118:29). |
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