Parents and Kids Daily Devotional "Abundant Joy"Sample

“To give thanks” is a phrase we hear so often. It is easy to do when everything is smooth sailing. But, when the storm hits, giving thanks becomes difficult, even close to impossible. Instead of giving thanks, we complain.

Apostle Paul invites us, in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, to give thanks in all circumstances.

The Passion Translation (TPT) writes it this way, “In the midst of everything be always giving thanks, for this is God’s perfect plan for you in Christ Jesus.”

God wants us to give thanks in all circumstances – in good and bad, in abundance and lacking when we are given both small and big blessings. Oftentimes, we give thanks only when we receive seemingly big blessings, such as a promotion in the office, getting a new car, dining at a fancy restaurant, etc. For kids, the blessings may come in the form of a new toy, passing a test, etc. Have you been thankful for the seemingly ordinary blessings that you have received today? To be able to breathe freely is a blessing. To be able to move around is a blessing. Not losing anything today is also a blessing.

Let us relearn the art of giving thanks for everything we have – big and small, in good and bad situations. Being thankful changes our mindset and mood. It turns our complaints into joy. Don’t forget that everything that God allows to happen works together for good.

Devotion for Parents
In today’s world where things are more difficult, what do we say more – words of complaint or thanksgiving?

Have we given thanks for the seemingly ordinary blessings we receive?

Devotion for Kids
We get disappointed when we don’t get what we want. And boy, it’s even harder to give thanks. Have you ever experienced this?

Family Devotion Time
Name the 3 things you are grateful for today.