Why does God require so much of me? As if He’s always there with His hand out. Wanting this or that. Any ‘fun’ things get nixed. If I don’t want to do something, I’m afraid that’s exactly what He wants me to do. Know what I mean, or have you rightfully concluded that I’m as wacky as can be?

What does God want? Let’s see what Psalm 50: 14-15 has to say–‘Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.’ Such helpful simplicity is often overlooked, at least by me.

Stop trying to placate an angry God, appease Him, pay Him off with some tithe tidbits, or perform hair-brained religious rituals, garner as many brownie points as possible, and tip the scales in your favor. Sounds familiar? Be honest. I’m trying to be.

Basically, these words from the Psalms unveil hope for God’s people. Not some new commandment or Sears’ catalogue of endless rules. No. But giving thanks is the main course on today’s menu. Saying ‘thank you’ to our Lord God. Showing appreciation for all He’s done for us. Especially for putting up with me (and you?!).

And that business about ‘vows’ in Psalm 50 has to do with following through with what we know is right, with what pleases the Lord. From a grateful and willing heart that recognizes what Jesus has done and still does for us. Being men and women of our word. Say it, do it. If you don’t mean it, don’t open your trap. Eager to bless our Lord Jesus, to bring joy to His heart. Not a have-to, but a want-to. You know, don’t you?

Forget trying to bargain with God. That’s a colossal waste of His and your time. Be upfront and transparent. Leave room to confess failures, disappointments, and sin. I have a supersized storeroom crammed full with lots of this stuff I’d rather not talk about, except with my Lord, especially with Him. Remember that He loves to forgive and forget. Oh, to be like Him!

Bring any troubles you’re saddled with directly to Jesus, pronto. He promises to help–‘…I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me’ (Ps. 50: 15). How and when? I’ve no idea. That’s God’s business, which, to be honest, is none of mine. Thank God He’s in charge.

My part is to go with that flow. To trust that my Lord will honor His Word. When He does (and even before for a change), let gratitude and thanks flow from our hearts and mouths to His ears and heart. Why is it so hard to say ‘thank you’ to God? I don’t know why. Maybe you do. Regardless, let’s start doing more of just that this week. You think? Thanksgiving every day, all year long? Such a sacrifice?

Thank you, Jesus, for welcoming me into your family forever. Amen.