Affirm Your Faith with Thanksgiving

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” 

2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT)

Have you ever prayed for strength? Strangely enough, sometimes our prayers may hinder our faith more than help it grow. One of the greatest expressions of faith in prayer is thanksgiving. When I examine my own prayer life, I’ve discovered that I’ve often asked God for things He’s already done or promised. What I should be doing is thanking Him for the provision He has already supplied. For example, have you ever prayed, “Oh God, be with me today.” Sometimes I wonder if God doesn’t just shake His head and think, “Well, let me see, I don’t know, I’m really busy and not sure I can be with you today or not. I have a lot on my plate.” The fact is He has already promised us more than once, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age!” in Matthew 28:20 (NLT) and “I will never leave you nor forsake you!” in Hebrews 13:5 (NKJV) So, rather than asking God to be with us, a prayer of faith would acknowledge His presence. “Thank You, Father, that You are with me!” Do you feel the difference in the confidence that can bring your soul when you pray in faith thanking God for what He has promised you? 

The same holds true when we pray for strength. When you face pressures and problems that leave you feeling weak and threaten to derail you, meet them with prayers of faith that build confidence by claiming the promises of God. Today’s verse is a great one to meditate on and pray back to God affirming your faith with thanksgiving. 

“Thank You, Father, that You have not given me a spirit of fear or timidity. Thank You that You are my strength and have given me a spirit of power, love and self-discipline.”

Practice affirming your faith with thanksgiving and watch your confidence grow as you claim God’s promises in prayer.

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To read this devotional online or catch up on past ones, visit kerryshook.org/blog.

As you continue your quiet time, prayer is a powerful way to stay connected to God and the family of Christ. The Woodlands Church Prayer Board offers a simple space to lift others in prayer and let them know you are standing with them. You can also share your own request and receive prayer support whenever you need it.

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