Gratitude that Returns to Jesus

Sometimes the most meaningful step you take turns you around! God’s goodness fills your life in countless ways, yet gratitude does more than enjoy His provisions.
One of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back to Jesus, shouting, “Praise God!”
– Luke 17:15 NLT

Ten men stood at a distance from Jesus with the same desperate need: healing. Leprosy affected far more than their health; it disrupted relationships and separated them from their communities. When Jesus entered their village, they cried out for mercy. Jesus told them to show themselves to the priests, and as they followed His direction, they were healed.

All ten received healing; only one turned back. He praised God, fell at Jesus’ feet, and thanked Him.

As you choose gratitude, you find Jesus, and He’s so much more than what He gave you.

Life gets busy, and you can easily move from an answered prayer to the next responsibility. Perhaps you have experienced healing, received a new job, watched a relationship begin to mend, or seen financial provision after praying and trusting God. Answered prayers can quickly become part of your new normal.

Think about how you respond when God provides. Do you simply enjoy what He has given you, or does His goodness turn your attention back toward Him? Gratitude creates that intentional pause. It recognizes the Father’s goodness and returns to Jesus with praise.

As you come to realize the Father’s goodness and return to Jesus with praise and thanksgiving, your joy and gratitude grow. It is Jesus who makes it possible for you to have a relationship with the Father, and the Holy Spirit who helps you feel grateful and enables you to see the Provider behind all that is provided. The joy you experience in God’s goodness today also points to the greater joy awaiting you in the future, which Christ has secured.

Today’s One Thing
Name one way God has been good to you this week. Return to Jesus; thank Him for it, and say aloud, “I recognize God’s goodness and choose to return to Jesus with gratitude.

Go Deeper

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