Love God Greatly - Names of God Part 1: Through Thanksgiving & ChristmasSample

The psalmist shares a song of praise with the affirmation that God Himself made us, and we are His. Believers are encouraged to walk in fellowship with God in order to have the fullness of joy in their lives. Those who follow and obey Him will experience His goodness, His everlasting mercy, and His enduring truth. Because we belong to God, our worship should be reserved for Him. Since we were created for worship, we will inevitably worship. Whatever it is that we choose to worship we will take on its characteristics.  If we worship self… we become selfish, self-righteous, and self-focused.  If we worship money, a career, promotion, or position… we become envious, competitive, discontented. If we worship a person or a relationship… we become insecure and approval-seeking. However, when we worship and fellowship with God, we become like Him. We take on His fruit and His Spirit displaying His love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. 

What is it that people see and experience when they have an encounter with you? Do they experience God’s joy, His goodness, His mercy, and His truth? If you lack the fullness of joy in your life, what or who might you be worshipping above God?  Does your behavior, attitude, and actions reflect a close and intimate walk with God?  

Father God, I am Your handiwork, fearfully and wonderfully made and individually designed for purpose. I’m overwhelmed that You desire an intimate relationship with me more than anything else. Lord, help me to surrender my all to You, for I am Yours. There are times, Lord, when my heart strays and wanders from You. I thank You for Your faithfulness and love in correcting and redirecting me swiftly and gently.  Lord, thank You for reminding me that reflecting Your light and Spirit is not just for me, but for those around me who need Your love, goodness, and mercy in their lives. Help me to remember, Lord, that this life of mine is not all about me, but about You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.