...and giving thanks to God

     in the presence of all...

                   Acts 27. 35

(Not just "I'm thankful for this,"

but "I am grateful to God."

Even giving thanks to God

                     out loud

distinguishes us as believers,

not to draw attention to ourselves,

         but point to His Presence.

People are thankful

               for a lot of stuff,

but it rarely even occurs

    in our culture anymore

        to thank God

        in the presence of all.

The act of verbal thanks

   changes how we see You,

   how we see circumstances,

   how we see others,

   and how we see ourselves

                 as Your beloved.)

O LORD,

May our words of gratefulness

    be not just a witness to others

            but to bring glory to You.

May our words reflect

         our love for You

    and our gratefulness

      not just for what You do,

      but who You are.

We love You, O God.

You are so good to us.