Did you know that “the secret of the Lord is with those who fear Him?” (Psalms 25:14) It’s likely impossible to define the “fear” of God in one sentence; however, one of the most compelling ways I like to think about it is: “a great fear of the absence of God’s presence.” The longer I live with a strong sense of God’s presence, the more I am thankful for Him. I see His hands at work in all areas of my life. I become more and more dependent upon Him; and thus, live more…as I was intended to live. And the other amazing thing is…
…when I’m close to God, I realize I need Him as much in the good times as I do the bad times!
To acknowledge God’s presence in the good times, makes the good times—even better. When things are going well, we tend to forget we need God and thus, leave out the BEST part of our life!!!
The good times are always much better—with God.
In fact, our failure to acknowledge God in the good times gives us a false sense of security; and thus, blinds us to the truth of how much we need Him. In a country of so much abundance, it’s amazing to see how unthankfulness runs rampant. But this is not surprising, given that our country has collectively kicked God out of most forums. I mean, think about it—how many satisfied people do you know??? My friend, the entire imagination of our culture [including the “christian” culture] has been darkened by our unthankfulness to God.
“When they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.”
Romans 1:21
“In the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy.”
2 Timothy 3:1-2
But, when we are children of God, we are carriers of the light of the Gospel; and when we let it shine, that light drives out the darkness of unthankfulness! Even amidst inflation and all the other post-pandemic woes, we live in more prosperity than most of the nations of the world. We have so much to be thankful to GOD for!!!
When we begin to praise God and acknowledge His vital role in the goodness we presently possess, His presence becomes an unmistakable force. How? Well, He adds to our physical blessings, the intangible blessings that money can’t buy—the fruits of His spirit like peace, love, joy, kindness, gentleness, wisdom, strength, etc. His presence is obvious to us and everyone around us and…we are full of His praises because we unequivocally KNOW…
“EVERY good gift and EVERY perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.”
James 1:17
Thankfulness to God in the good times, multiplies and prolongs all the goodness in our life. Knowing God, is discovering your greatest source of goodness.
“For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God.”
II Corinthians 4:15
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with EVERY spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.”
Ephesians 1:3
To learn more about Kimberly Faith and the mission of Faith Strong, click HERE.
Out Now – Essential Faith, Volume II. Find it on Amazon by clicking HERE.
