Family Day 4: Praise and thanksgiving
Today's Scripture
"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." -1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)
Reflect on the word
We are made to worship God. Worship starts by simply thinking about Him-who He is, what He has done, what He is doing. Even when things are hard or we don't feel like it, the Holy Spirit helps us worship. Praise and thanksgiving are important ways we worship God. When we praise God, we focus on who He is. When we thank God, we're thanking Him for what He has done.
Put this thankful attitude to work with a family scavenger hunt. For the first round, everyone finds something they're thankful for. Items can be symbolic; for example, a water bottle might remind you to thank God for clean water. Gather items and share your responses.
For the second round, everyone finds something that describes God (a praise item). For example, a toy animal might remind you to praise God as creator, or a bandage might remind you that God heals. Once again, share your responses with one another, and be encouraging.
Reflect, pray + bless
- Reflect: What could it look like to give God thanks and praise in your daily routine?
- Pray: Using the letters of your last name, craft a family prayer of praise and thanksgiving. For each letter, share a word of praise or something you're thankful for that begins with that letter, or includes it, if that's easier for little ones.
- Bless: "[Child's name], give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever. May you always remember that you are loved and that you were made to worship God."