With Thanks

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. – (Colossians 3:17, HCSB)

Everything you say and everything you do should be done for Jesus your Lord. And in all you do, give thanks to God the Father through Jesus. – (Colossians 3:17, ERV)

Surely, no matter what you are doing (speaking, writing, or working), do it all in the name of Jesus our Master, sending thanks through Him to God our Father. – (Colossians 3:17, VOICE)

After a great spring break that went far too quickly, this is a great verse to set my heart right as I go. It will be a busy day, as it is not only the first day back for staff and students, but it is also the first day of coaching volleyball this season. There is a long list of girls who will be trying out, and reteaching routines in the classroom after a break require much patience, as we push into the final long stretch of the school year. Ultimately, when I remember who I am doing it all for, my priorities are set right and my heart seeks to love as He loves me. In all of the busy, my aim is to walk in gratitude, for He has been so good to me. May we ever seek the Lord to lead us in His love, so that all that we say and do is done unto Him with thanksgiving.

All unto the Lord,

in word, thought, and deed;

may His love be shown,

as He meets our needs.

He grants us patience,

the strength to be kind;

to do things with love,

with heart, soul, and mind.

In everything,

may we let love lead;

for His way’s greater,

and He meets our needs.

Show us, Lord Jesus,

Your way in all things;

lead us and guide us,

in everything.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You are good and loving and kind. Thank You that You ask us to do all things unto You so that we might choose to love as You love. Forgive us for every word, thought, and deed that did not glorify You. Teach us to trust You more to lead us so that we may reflect Your goodness and love in all that we say and do. Show us how to love those around us in ways that demonstrate our gratitude for who You are and how You love us all. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we seek You to lead us in all that we say and do, and give You thanks in all things. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His faithful love endures forever. – 1 Chronicles 16:34