At a time in our history when so much of our world is in turmoil. With men and women on the war front overseas, defending our nation and protecting our liberties. At a time when we hear of wars and rumors of wars, earthquakes, floods, and famines. As we think on the events that happened last September and remember the tragic loss our nation has experienced. Let's not become burdened with sorrow. It is good to mourn and grieve all that has been lost, but we must also take time to celebrate all that is ours. Let's take time to thank the Lord for all He has provided. Let us openly worship Him. When everything seems uncertain, we know that one thing will never change...that is the Lord. He is the same yesterday, today, forever.

Let's take time to celebrate the life God has given us. Spend a day just praising him, or how about an hour. Get some friends together and have a "river" party. My friend, Jill, introduced me to that term. A river party is a time of worship and praise unto the Lord. It is a party with a focus on God. What a brilliant idea! Why not?

We have so much to be thankful for. Each of us with our trails and hardships have also experienced laughter and love, anticipation and joy. The word of God says that every good and perfect gift is from above. God loves to give His children good gifts. Why not take some time to thank Him for them. Maybe you're not sure you have received any good gifts from God. How about the sun shining, the birds singing, the light that turned green just as you approached it? What about a smile from a stranger, a puppy's breath on your face, a hug from a friend? Still not sure? What about the feet that you walk on or the chair you roll around in? Can't do that? How about thanking Him for the sounds that you hear or the faces that you can see or the very air that you breathe? Make it your goal everyday to thank God for ten things with every meal you eat? One could be the meal itself. Two, the hands that prepared and served it. You get the idea.

Now what does all this have to do with the season we are in? Good question. As we enter into dark days we need to discipline ourselves to not be consumed with fear and dread. To not become pessimistic, but to remain joyful in the Lord. The Word of God says we should think upon whatever is true, whatever is noble, right or pure or lovely; whatever is admirable excellent or praiseworthy.. Our attitude will affect not only ourselves but those around us. What a time to be witnesses of the peace and joy that come only form the Lord.

we do have a choice in what comes our way, however, we will always have a choice of how we respond to life's circumstances. We can choose to let this world dictate to us how we should feel or we can let the joy of the Lord be our strength. God is enthroned upon the praises of His people. To worship Him is to celebrate His plan for you and for this world. Besides we know who wins in the end. Rejoice! You are on the winning team!

I don't know what life has brought your way. I have lived through heartache and disappointment. I have felt the sting of death as I said good bye to loved ones. I have witnessed the tearing apart of families I love. I have battled fear in the night. I have had times of loneliness and despair, yet I know that if God be for me, who shall be against me? I have learned that in any circumstance I CAN praise the Lord. I'd like to encourage you too. Whatever your current circumstance you CAN still praise God. Don't let the devil deceive you. We CAN praise the Lord at all times. It is an act of our will, not our emotions.

My husband and I have recently adopted a baby girl from Guatemala. After two years of waiting, mountains of paperwork and much prayer she is at last home with us. We are celebrating her life, and how her life has become intertwined with ours. We are celebrating God's awesome plan and purpose for our family. We are celebrating life.

So set your mind on things above. Gather with some friends for a river party. Sing with the radio, dance in the rain, whistle back to the birds. This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it! May you walk in His grace. Thy kingdom come!

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