I am God Most High!
The only sacrifice I want
is for you to be thankful
and to keep your word. Psalm 50:14 CEV
The holidays are upon us, and for many so is a heaviness due to loss, hurt and regret. That first holiday season after any of those things is always bittersweet, because you can find joy in many of the memories and yet there is a sadness of heart for what is now missing that brings hurt and regret to surface. When that happens we have a choice to make, to focus on the loss, or focus on the only Healer of broken and wounded hearts. One will leave us depleted and longing for the emptiness to stop that we’re feeling. The other will give us a peace, comfort and fulfilment the world can’t even remotely give.
Our humanness will tell us that’s impossible. But our spirit will tell us to listen to our Abba and that in giving thanks with a grateful heart will be seen as a heartfelt sacrifice. Why does God ask for the sacrifice of a thankful heart, because it is showing Him you trust Him with your loss, grief and pain and are willing to continue to thank Him with your mouth even though your heart is breaking. You’re telling Him you believe His word that tells you His Son, your High Priest knows how you are feeling and you’re giving up your feelings to receive what you really need, Him! And in that sacrifice you will begin to fill the emptiness and heal that broken heart with His love and grace.
Remember, we who have experienced a loved one who knew Jesus as their Savior and Lord entering glory can be celebrating with them. For they are perfectly restored and waiting to spend an eternity with us! In the midst of the pain and grief, start to thank Him and let it put a song in your heart and sing your way into His presence and really enjoy a true Thanksgiving.
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