*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL*

*MONDAY AUGUST 3RD, 2020*

*PASTOR CHRIS*

*GIVING THANKS ALWAYS*

_Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 5:20)._

The human brain is divided into two major parts: the right side and the left side. The left side is what you use to analyze, calculate and plan. It also makes excuses. If, for example, there’re tasks for you to accomplish, but you say, “I’m not sure I’ll be able to do this for such-and-such a reason,” that’s the left side of your brain working. It produces reasons for success or failure. The right side of your brain, on the other hand, is the one that spontaneously catches pictures, creates imaginations, and gives answers. It produces creativity, beauty, colours. But sadly, because the world around us is mostly sense-ruled, we’re taught to reason more. Therefore, most people depend on the analytical side of their brain (the left side), and as a result, they’re not creative; they don’t produce clear-cut answers. However, it’s important to note that the right side of your brain can be activated, and one of the best ways of achieving this is what God shows us in our theme verse: “Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father….” God knows this works, because He created you. He knows if you’re always thankful, you’ll have an attitude of joy in spite of your situation and be able to create answers and solutions. Here, you’ll see colours, beauty and the brighter side of life. Therefore, learn to give thanks always for all things. It makes no difference that you’re in debt or many who are owing you money are unable to pay; give thanks! Your landlord may have given you a notice to quit; give thanks nonetheless! Perhaps you heard that the company or organisation where you work is retrenching workers and your name is on the list, give thanks! Irrespective of such challenges, give thanks! The Bible lets us know that giving thanks in all things is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Hebrews 13:15 says, “By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.” When you have this attitude—the thanksgiving attitude—your life will be one of victory, glory, joy and unending testimonies. Hallelujah!

*PRAYER*

Blessed Father, you’re gracious and kind! From the depth of my heart, I’m grateful for your grace, mercy, wisdom and power by which I live triumphantly today, prospering in all that I do, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

*FURTHER READING*

*1 Thessalonians 5:18 AMPC*
Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will].

*1 Chronicles 16:8-10*
Give thanks unto the Lord , call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people.

Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him, talk ye of all his wondrous works.

Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord .

*DAILY SCRIPTURE READING*

*1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:*

Romans 7:7-25 & Psalms 64-67

*2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:*

Ephesians 5:17-24 & Isaiah 54