Dean Mapa: March 2007 Archives

There's a popular phrase that goes, "Thank God It's Friday!"

Perhaps this is the reason why we can become so stressed out during the week. We only give thanks to God on Fridays.

Look, however, at what the Bible says: This is the day the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it -Psalm 118:24.

Look at another verse: Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name -Hebrews 13:15.

It's all about cultivating an attitude of gratitude. When we are always thankful to God, no matter what day it is, we enjoy the day more. When we enjoy the day, less stress comes into our lives. When we are less stressed, we are able to forget about our needs and wants and be of service to others. This is the best way to evangelize.

It's also the best way to live abundantly.

By day the LORD directs his love, at night his song is with me--a prayer to the God of my life. -Ps 42:8 (NIV)

How do you go to sleep at nights? Do you bring the problems of the day to your sleep? Do your worries wake you in the middle of the night? Do you go to sleep in dread of the following day?

It doesn't have to be this way. We can sing a lullaby to ourselves by worshiping God before we lay our heads on the pillow. God is the God of our lives. We are safe in his hands. When we begin the day knowing and embracing God's love, we can be assured that the day will progress according to his direction.

When God is in control, his peace -- the peace that passes all understanding -- will follow us. As evening comes we can affirm that peace through worship and thanksgiving.

Then peaceful sleep comes.