Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! PHILIPPIANS 4:4

Giving thanks to God is one of the most powerful things you can do as a believer. The Lord works mightily through the praises of His people. This is because when you tell the Father how much you love and appreciate Him, you acknowledge you’re dependent upon His provision and strength. And that’s exactly the attitude necessary for Him to exhibit His power through you.

Take, for example, Paul and Silas who were imprisoned in a Philippian jail (Acts 16:16–34). Beaten and imprisoned unjustly, they began to praise the Father. And God responded to their thanksgiving by sending an earthquake to shake the prison doors open. The jailer was so moved by the Lord’s powerful deliverance, he and his household accepted Jesus as Savior.

It was to that congregation—to the eyewitnesses of the miracle at the Philippian prison—that Paul would write, “Rejoice in the Lord always.” And the people knew the truth of his instruction because they’d seen how God works mightily through praise.

You can too. So exalt the Father regardless of your circumstances. Delight in Him, for certainly His deliverance is at hand.

Jesus, I praise You! Even when my situation seems bleak, You hold my life perfectly in Your loving hand, amen.

In His presence . . . rejoice!

Stanley, Dr. Charles F. (2014-11-11). Every Day in His Presence (p. 349).