JESUS Film Harvest Partners

Dear Friends and Partners,

This has been a year of "uncertainty" from man's point of view! Thankfulness takes the sting out of uncertainty and adversity. That is why our Father has instructed us to give thanks for everything. There is an element of mystery in this transaction: You give Him thanks (regardless of your feelings), and He gives you joy (regardless of your circumstances).

This is a spiritual act of obedience—at times, blind obedience. To people who don't know Jesus intimately, it can seem irrational and even impossible to thank Him for heart-rending hardships. Nonetheless, those who obey our Father in this way are invariably blessed, even though difficulties may remain.

When my daughter, Heidi, was bucked off her horse a few years ago and broke her arm, at first I was angry at the horse trainer and the horse. When I was able to start giving thanks in my heart, my attitude changed toward both the horse trainer and the horse. I still was not happy that it happened but was able to have a pure heart and mind toward the trainer and the horse.

Thankfulness opens our hearts to our Father's Presence and our minds to His thoughts. We may still be in the same place, with the same set of circumstances, but it is as if a light has been switched on, enabling us to see from God's perspective. It is this Light of Our Father's Presence that removes the sting from uncertainty and adversity.

Let me encourage you today to focus on Ephesians 5:20, "Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Or, Psalm 118:1 "Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever." And, Psalm 89:15 "Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD."

As you sit quietly in God's presence, let Him fill your heart and mind with thankfulness. Let gratefulness to Him replace the "uncertainty" swirling about you.

Thank you for being a part of JESUS Film Harvest Partners. I am very thankful for your support and prayers which makes it possible to support many JESUS Film teams around the globe. Be thankful today in whatever circumstance you are facing. The love of our Father transcends and makes our hearts one with His.

Blessings,

                               

Chuck Watson
Director of Strategic Relationships
chuckwatson@JFHP.org
817-427-4900

P.S. - Portions of this eNewsletter are taken from Sarah Young's book, Jesus Calling.