Day 18
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Take time to be thankful. Read a short devotion and a selected Bible verse each day.
It’s Day 18 of the Gratitude for Every Day 30-Day Devotion.
DEVOTION
I often find myself overwhelmed looking at what I haven’t yet accomplished, what I’ve failed to achieve, and how I haven’t measured up. When I watch the news, my despair is compounded, and the combination of self-doubt and fear can be debilitating. It can be easy to get caught up in the challenges and busyness of the world. We may focus on what’s going wrong rather than what’s going right. However, Ephesians 5:19:20 reminds us of the importance of gratitude. It calls us to make music from our hearts to the Lord and to give thanks in all circumstances.
A powerful message is found in Ephesians 5:19-20. That verse encourages us to speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit and to always thank God the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Giving thanks in all circumstances doesn’t mean we must be thankful for the difficult situations but rather for the strength, guidance, and growth we can receive from them. It’s an acknowledgment that God is present in every aspect of our lives, both the joyful and the challenging.
When we cultivate a spirit of gratitude, we shift our focus from our problems to the blessings surrounding us. It allows us to see God's hand in our lives despite hardships. By giving thanks in all circumstances, we demonstrate our trust in God's plan and reliance on His grace.
Let’s take a moment to reflect on the many reasons for which we can be thankful. Whether it’s the love of family and friends, the beauty of creation, or the gift of salvation through Christ, there’s always something to be grateful for. As we go about our day, let’s cultivate a heart of thanksgiving, knowing that our gratitude honors and glorifies God.
May we always thank God for everything, recognizing His presence and the countless blessings He bestows upon us.
VERSE
Ephesians 5:19-20 (ESV: English Standard Version)
Don't have your Bible handy? Click here to read online.
AUTHOR
Dr. Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes
Dr. Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes is an editor, author, speaker, podcaster, and educational consultant. She is the production editor for Embolden Media Group and a member of Word Weavers International, serving as an online chapter president and mentor. She belongs to FWA (Florida Writers Association), ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers), CWoC (Crime Writers of Color), AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association), and AASA (American Association of School Administrators).
She serves on the nonprofit organization Submersion 14 board and the 540 Writer’s Community board and is an art instructor for the nonprofit organization Light for the Future in Guatemala. Katherine hosts the podcast Murder, Mystery & Mayhem Laced with Morality. She contributes regularly to several magazines, blogs, and newsletters. She authored a Bible study for women, a collaborative anthology of devotions, and is currently working on the sequels of her first general market thriller novel.
Her thriller A Fifth of the Story debuted in February 2024 through Endgame Press.
Website - http://www.drkatherinehayes.com
