The Power of Belief: Unleashing Gratitude and Joy
Have you ever stopped to think about the disconnect between what we say we believe and how we live our lives? It’s a profound question that can lead to a transformative shift in our perspective. As believers, we often fall short in three key areas: remembering what it means to be called “believers,” forgetting what we believe, and failing to express gratitude.
The Gift of God’s Son
At the heart of our faith is the gift of God’s Son, Jesus Christ. He gave Himself freely, without coercion, to save us from ourselves. This selfless act deserves our eternal gratitude. As Titus 2:14 reminds us, “Our Savior Jesus Christ… gave himself for us.”
Ten Reasons to Be Thankful
In addition to the gift of Jesus, we have numerous reasons to be thankful. Here are ten blessings to get us started:
Forgiveness of Sins
We deserve punishment for our sins, but Christ took it upon Himself, offering us forgiveness instead. As Acts 26:18 states, “…that [we] might receive forgiveness of sins.”
Family Status
Through faith, we become sons and daughters of God, receiving the same family status as Jesus Christ. John 1:12 confirms, “As many as received him, to them gave he the power to become the sons of God.”
Grace
God’s favor, undeserved and unearned, was given to us before the world began. As 2 Timothy 1:9 says, “…grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began.”
The Holy Spirit
The Spirit of truth indwells us, guides us, and produces fruit in our lives. Acts 2:38 promises, “…ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
Peace
Christ left us His peace, a gift available to us at all times. John 14:27 reminds us, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you.”
Wisdom
When we lack wisdom, we can ask God, and He will give it to us willingly. James 1:5 encourages us, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God… and it shall be given.”
Victory over Death
Through Jesus Christ, we have victory over death. As 1 Corinthians 15:57 declares, “Thanks be to God who giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
An Inheritance
We are joint heirs with Christ, receiving an inheritance that is incorruptible and reserved in heaven for us. Acts 26:18 says, “…that they may… receive an inheritance.”
Everlasting Life
Ultimately, we have the gift of everlasting life through faith in Jesus Christ. John 3:16 reminds us, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
A Call to Gratitude and Joy
As we reflect on these blessings, let us be more excited, more joyful, and more grateful for what we have received. May our lives be characterized by thanksgiving and praise, honoring the One who has given us so much.
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