Thanksgiving tradition isn’t only about the turkey and stuffing, as we all know. Part of our practice as a secular nation is inspired by our tradition as Christians to offer thanks to our Lord. Thanksgiving is an act of worship; it is our heart’s response to what God has done.
We are grateful for a God who has met us where we are in Christ, saving us from sin and death. We are also grateful for all the blessings that have truly only come from God, our creator.
Living in gratitude is a virtue of not only worship but of practicality. When we live with thanksgiving as our attitude we see everything differently because we seek out opportunities to be grateful, from all the green lights on our way to work to a warm bed; leaving our lives focused on beauty instead of destruction.
As in our past DIY Praise & Worship posts, below are three simple steps and a set of songs to jump start your worship.
I recommend setting aside at least half an hour in order to enter deeply into prayer and receive what the Lord has for you. Turn off the ringer on your phone and get a pen and paper (for Steps 2 and 3).
Step 1:
Begin in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Recognize that you are in his presence! Begin to praise him. Between songs, let your own words of worship flow out in English and/or in tongues.
Doxology – Phil Wickham
Indescribable – Christ Tomlin
This is Amazing Grace- Maranatha Music
Blessed Be Your Name – Matt Redman
Step 2:
Worship will lead you into contemplation. Sit with the Lord. Allow him to speak to you. Write down what he says to you or what he does in your heart. Writing will help you focus to receive what he has for you.
Step 3:
Respond to what the Lord said or did in Step 2. What will you do with what he has just given you? How can you thank him? Writing down your response will help you to remember it and to act on it.
Enjoy your time of worship. This is what Jesus came for – to be with you.
More songs of worship are below.
Great Are You Lord – All Sons & Daughters
Your Grace is Enough – Matt Maher
Good, Good Father – Kalley Heiligenthal
By Hannah Stroup, Christ the King’s clerical assistant.