Tears of Gratitude
I’ve been grateful for many things the Lord has performed not only in my life, but others too. Just recently I had the privilege again to share in the joy of my pastor and her husband acquiring a second home in the state of Georgia. The Lord blessed their first home to be a castle and the second one is absolutely magnificent. Words could never describe it.
Upon them moving in, I offered to come over and help get her closet setup, unpack her clothes and hang them up. We formed a chain with the help of some of the other members that were there. Before we knew it, the closet was full, everything organized and in its own location. You can always tell when the presence of the Lord enters into a place. As we were working I began to sense a great feeling of gratitude in my heart and before I knew it tears were flowing from my eyes.
Such a great measure of gratitude entered in, my cup ran over. I’ve seen them give out of their substance to many without every taking it into account again. Just grateful they had it to give for the time of someone else’s need.
The Apostle Paul in the book of Acts (20) established what the characteristics of a model pastor should be that is called after God’s own heart. They are to serve God faithfully and love his people, accepting his will. I’ve watched my Pastor’s walk with the Lord for years and I can truly say she is worthy of double honor, holy abhor what is evil and full of God’s Spirit.
When my husband and I purchased our first home two years ago, she was right there not only praying us through, but with sound wisdom, guidance and instructions.
That day the gratitude within me esteem from the fulfilling of God’s promises. Romans 12:15 says, “Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.” Before I knew it, we were standing in her kitchen weeping and rejoicing together for the wonderful things the Lord had done.
If I can impart anything to the body of Christ, it is this. Never allow jealousy or envy hinder you from rejoicing when others are being blessed. Know that God has not forgotten you and in due season if you faint not, you shall reap.
Numbers 23:19 says, “God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? Or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good? Remember the promises He’s made to you for they are given to all who believe and have received Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour. Hide them in your heart and believe all things are possible with God.
Wake up each and every day expecting something wonderful to happen and despise not humble beginnings. When we live righteous lives, we put ourselves in direct line to receive God’s abundant blessings. Delight (encourage) yourself also in the Lord for His great pleasure is to fulfill your every desire.
Copyright 2006 by Deborah Hall-Branch
