Pause: A Month of Gratitude in Five Minutes a DaySample

Proclaim

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” (Phil. 4:8-9)

Prompt

Anger is an unavoidable emotion, and with it often comes regrettable words. I can recall too many instances when words I truly didn't mean slipped out just because I was angry.

Inevitably, we will all make some people angry at some point in our lives. And angry people don’t always say the nicest things about the people they’re angry at.

Through our relationship with Jesus, when angry words are used against us, we no longer have to wilt in shame or wither in disgrace. He has set us free! He has taken all our shame on Him, so the only words we need to pay attention to are His: the grateful words of life He speaks over us every minute of the day.

But I get it. This is not easy. Words hurt and words can stick. If you have some hurtful words rolling around in your mind from someone, take some time to ask God to replace them with what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable!

Prod

Make a list of ten words that describe you as God sees you. Carry it with you today.

Praise

Listen to “Greater” by Elevation Worship

Pray

Jesus, thank you for speaking words of life over me. Thank you that you are GREATER than any of the hurtful words people have used against me. The world tells me I’m miserable and small, but you say I’m blessed and big. The world tells me I can’t do anything right, but you say I can rest in you. Forget about the world—I’m listening only to you today. Amen.