August 29

But Samuel declared: “Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obedience to His voice? Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice, and attentiveness is better than the fat of rams. — 1 Sam 15:22 BSB

Our healing is described as a reward for obedience. If we desire to please the Lord and receive the blessings that come from pleasing Him, there is no service more acceptable to Him than our praise.

When we come before Him with a heart full of gratitude and joy, He reflects it back to us in the form of health, strength, and vitality. Our physical well-being often mirrors the joy and thankfulness of our hearts. A cheerful spirit is the best preparation for faith because trust naturally grows in a heart filled with praise.

Thankfulness causes us to focus on the bright side of God’s character, which strengthens our trust in Him. On the other hand, unbelief fixates on our troubles, making them appear like mountains and discouraging our faith. A thankful person will always find something to be grateful for, while a gloomy one will find something to complain about, even in the best circumstances.

Let us cultivate a spirit of cheerfulness and thankfulness, and we will discover so much to encourage us that doubt and fear will have no place.