Finding gratitude in God’s design for life – Exodus 20:1–12
Thanksgiving isn’t just a date on the calendar.
It’s a way of living. It is a rhythm of gratitude. This rhythm shapes how we see the world and the One who made it.
Sometimes it feels like life rushes by faster than we can catch our breath. We must pause to remember God’s goodness. When we choose to live by His Word, something quiet and beautiful happens. Our hearts become thankful again.
And God, in His kindness, gives us a guide for living this way. It’s found in the first five commandments. They are not heavy rules. They are invitations to live in gratitude, peace, and love.
🌾 1. Keep God First
“You shall have no other gods before Me.”
A thankful heart begins with remembering who comes first.
When God is at the center, everything else starts to make sense.
It’s easy to let little things — worry, work, or even our own plans — take that place. But gratitude grows when we whisper, “You first, Lord. Everything else can wait.”
That’s where peace begins.
🌿 2. Let Go of Idols
“You shall not make for yourself an idol.”
We may not worship golden statues, but we all have things that try to steal our focus.
Idols today can look like busyness, comfort, approval, or even the endless scroll on our screens.
When we let go of what distracts us, our hands open — and God fills them with His blessings.
Gratitude begins when we see everything as gift, not possession.
💬 3. Speak God’s Name with Love
“You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God.”
Our words reveal the posture of our hearts.
When we speak with reverence, when we bless instead of complain, we create an atmosphere where gratitude can breathe.
This week, let your words carry kindness. Use a soft tone and say a gentle “thank You, Lord.” Notice how peace follows.
🕊️ 4. Rest in His Goodness
“Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy.”
Gratitude needs stillness.
When we never slow down, we forget what we already have.
God invites us to pause. Set aside the to-do lists. Pour a cup of tea, take a walk, or rest in His presence.
Sabbath is His reminder that life is more than work; it’s relationship, renewal, and thanksgiving.
🌸 5. Honor Those Who Came Before
“Honor your father and your mother.”
This commandment is about roots — remembering those who loved us into being.
Parents, grandparents, mentors, neighbors — their prayers and faith shape who we are.
To honor them is to carry forward their love, their kindness, and their gratitude for God’s provision.
When we give thanks for them, we pass faith to the next generation.
💛 Living with Thankful Hearts
Gratitude isn’t something we find; it’s something we practice.
When we keep God first, we let go of idols. We speak kindly and rest deeply. By honoring those who came before us, thanksgiving becomes a way of life.
It shows up in our words, our routines, and the way we treat one another.
The commandments aren’t rules to restrain us. They’re the gentle framework that helps us live fully and freely. We live in the presence of a loving God.
So this week, may your table be full. May your rest be sweet. Let your words be gentle. May your heart be centered in the goodness of God.
🌷 A Gentle Prayer
Lord,
Teach me to live with a thankful heart.
Keep You first in all things. Help me rest in Your love. Remind me of those who’ve shown me the way.
Let my words and my days bring You praise.
Amen.
With gratitude and grace,
–Pastor Barb
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