November 22, 2005
Sense Of Belonging!
Among the things for which we may give thanks is family. Good relationships are a real blessing in life. How sad it is for those who do not have a sense of belonging; who feel forgotten and maybe unloved. In this country the celebration of “Thanksgiving” provides the opportunity for many family gatherings where is found the enjoyment of good company, good food, and the sharing of loving remembrances. Not just this time of year, but always it is important for us to let others know they are significant. Family and friendships should not be taken for granted. Do those we are connected with know we have an APPRECIATION for the relationship?
In our offering of thanks for relationships, let us not forget this one!
“Know that the LORD, he is God! It is he who made us, and WE ARE HIS; we are HIS PEOPLE, and THE SHEEP OF HIS PASTURE.” ( Psalm 100:3 ESV)
How many times did the nation of Israel forget to Whom they belonged? How many times did they have to lose the relationship to begin to APPRECIATE it again. At the time of Hosea, God declared He would withhold His blessings because the people did not acknowledge they had come from Him. ( Hosea 2:8-9) Do we forget? Do we live with a constant awareness that He is the Giver of life and all things? ( Acts 17:25)
How thankful are we for the relationship God desires to have with us will not only be expressed by our words, but by the manner in which we live our life as well. Is He truly our God? Do we APPRECIATE being cared for in His flock? Are we encouraged and motivated to press on in faith and righteous living by such a sense of belonging? Can there be a Psalm (or a song) of thanks on our heart without thinking of God and how everything about life relates to that relationship? Recognizing the meaningfulness of our relationship with God will help bring meaningfulness to our other relationships as well. To APPRECIATE life we must rightfully APPRECIATE all that relates to our relationship with God. May a daily life of thanksgiving reveal it is to Him we truly belong.
Have a great day EXPERIENCING WHAT TRUE BELONGING IS ALL ABOUT!
Carl
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