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“Motivational Gratefulness” Doesn’t Work
Rod ShimabukuroTherefore David blessed the LORD in the presence of all the assembly. And David said: “Blessed are you, O LORD, the God of Israel our father, forever and ever. [11]Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O LORD, and you are exalted as head above all. [12]Both riches and honor come from you, and you rule over all. In your hand are power and might, and in your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all. [13]And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name. 1 Chronicles 29:10-13
In the vision and mission of building the Temple of God, David calls God’s people to rise and contribute. The goal and intent is worship and acknowledgement of God - building Him a temple, but not for man to revel in it’s beauty or accomplishment of such a monstrous feat. Seeing provisions being made, David blesses the Lord in the presence of the people.
It’s important for me as a spiritual leader of my home, the church - to be a worshiper. One who is God centered. I must take lead, from the inner man. It can’t be a show of gratefulness or just talk. Motivational gratefulness does not work. I must be sincere to the core. It’s between God and I - when it comes down to it.
I guess I feel that spiritual leaders can mask an inner selfishness when we acquire gain. We say thank you to God, because ”our vision“ (even from God) is being accomplished. It’s a subtle shift in motive that begins robbing God of glory, honor. I really, really want to be careful of this inner hypocrisy that sometimes creeps up in me.
Dear God -
Like David’s prayer, I honor You... Your majesty and greatness...far above anything and anyone!! You are the Best! You are the most magnificent. Forgive me for over recognizing people and displacing You. I don’t mean to give you less honor - but my inner sinful man van be so deceived. I just want to be truly vulnerable and transparent before You - with a God fearing Gratefulness!!
