Christianity stresses much on "gratitude." The Bible often teaches us, "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1The5:16-18) "Giving thanks in all circumstances" means thanking God whether in good times or bad, blessed or distressed.
There are many things worthy of thanks in the past 2016, in life, family and work. God leads us all the time despite our weakness or discouragement. Let's meditate on gratitude to greet the new year!
#1 Hebrews 12:28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.
#2 Philippians 4:4-6 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
#3 Isaiah 12:1 In that day you will say: "I will praise you, LORD. Although you were angry with me, your anger has turned away and you have comforted me.
#4 Colossians 3:17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
#5 Psalm 100:1-5 Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
#6 James 1:17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
#7 2Corinthians 9:15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
#8 Psalm 118:1-5 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.
Let Israel say: "His love endures forever."
Let the house of Aaron say: "His love endures forever."
Let those who fear the Lord say: "His love endures forever."
In my anguish I cried to the Lord, and he answered by setting me free.
#9 Isaiah 12:4-5 In that day you will say: "Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing to the LORD, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world.
#10 Colossians 3:15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
(All Bible Verses are quoted from New International Version.)
Translated by: Karen Luo
