Count All Your Blessings ~

Count all your blessings,
every single blessed one . . .
add them all together
be grateful for the sum.

Be thankful for all you have,
convey your gratitude
let your appreciation
reflect in your attitude.

Appreciate your wealth,
no matter how great or small
show your gratefulness
to God who supplies it all.

Let your thankfulness,
reach across the whole land
freely give to others
what God’s put in your hand.

Count all your blessings,
so many have not any. . .
give to them all you can
even if it’s your last penny!

~~~~~~~~

Mark 12:41-44

And Jesus sat over against
the treasury, and beheld
how the people cast money
into the treasury: and many
that were rich cast in much.

And there came
a certain poor widow,
and she threw in two mites,
which make a farthing.

And he called unto him his
disciples, and saith unto them,
Verily I say unto you,
That this poor widow
hath cast more in, than all
they which have cast into
the treasury:

For all they did cast in of
their abundance; but she
of her want did cast in all
that she had, even all her living.

King James Bible
Public Domain

Copyright 2013 Revised 2020
Deborah Ann Belka

Eternally Thankful ~

Lord, may my heart be,
eternally thankful . . .
may it always to You
be forever grateful.

May it sing it’s praises,
for all that You do
may it show it’s thanks
for to You it’s always due.

Lord, may my song swell,
with my gratefulness
may it resonate loudly
of Your faithfulness.

May its lyric’s convey,
my complete devotion
may its melody express
my gratitude unbroken.

Lord, may my heart be,
filled with thanksgiving
may my praise to You . . .
always be transmitting!

~~~~~~~~~~

Psalm 7:17

I will praise the Lord
according to his righteousness:
and will sing praise to the name
of the Lord most high.

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2020
Deborah Ann Belka

~ to GOD be the GLORY ~

A Plate of Grace ~

Come this Thanksgiving . . .
there’ll be no turkey with dressing
I’m only going to serve a plate
of gratitude for God’s blessings.

As a substitute for candied yams,
we’ll feast on His loving kindness
taste the sweetness of His favor
as we reflect on His righteousness.

There’ll be no rolls and butter,
instead, we’ll eat of the Bread of Life
with gratitude we’ll give our thanks
to Jesus for bearing our strife.

In place of mashed potatoes,
there’ll be praise piled just as high
we’ll sing our adoration
in place of having pumpkin pie.

The only beverage we will drink,
will be from the one True Vine
with humility on our lips
our thanks will be as sweet as wine.

Come this Thanksgiving . . .
there’ll be no traditional dinner
instead I’ll serve a plate of grace
to anyone who is a sinner!

~~~~~~~

Psalm 7:17

I will praise the Lord
according to his righteousness:
and will sing praise to the name
of the Lord most high.

Ephesians 5:20

Giving thanks always for all things
unto God and the Father in the name
of our Lord Jesus Christ;

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2012 Revised 2019
Deborah Ann Belka

Father, How Can I Show My Gratitude ~

Father, how can I show my gratitude,
my gratefulness for all You’ve done
how can I show my thankfulness
for the eternal gift of Your Son?

What can I do to repay You,
for the kindness You’ve shown me
what can I give back to You
so my appreciation You can see?

How can I render my thanksgiving,
the sense of my true gratification
how can I ever prove to You
the full delight of my satisfaction?

Father, how can I show my gratitude,
my gratefulness for all You do
how can I show my thankfulness
if I am not always praising You?

~~~~~~~~

Colossians 3:17

And whatsoever ye do
in word or deed, do all
in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God
and the Father by him.

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2013 Revised 2019
Deborah Ann Belka

Blessing Counting ~

Don’t number your burdens,
instead count your blessings
for burden counting, adding
can be gloomy and depressing.

So let your mind run free,
and add up all the ways
God has provided you . . .
with your needs each day.

Don’t list your complaints,
instead tally up God’s benefits
for complaining, tallying
has disheartening elements.

So let your heart begin,
to list the hopeful things
everyday into your life
Jesus sends and brings.

Don’t list all of your have-nots,
rather count the good things God has given
when your done the total sum . . .
will add up to the reasons you’re forgiven!

~~~~~~~~

Psalm 103:2

“Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits:”

Copyright 2019
Deborah Ann Belka

Pray With out Ceasing ~

Pray without ceasing,
and answer God will
be anxious for naught
than wait and be still.

Pray at all times,
trust and believe
your supplications
God will receive.

Pray to Your Father,
in Jesus’ name
be sure His peace
in your life you claim.

Pray for one another,
raise thankful your hands
seek His face early
and He’ll reveal His plans.

Pray without ceasing,
with gratefulness
remember always . . .
God’s faithfulness!

~~~~~

1 Thessalonians 5:17

“Pray without ceasing.”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2018
Deborah Ann Belka

Good Night Lord ~

Good night Lord,
it’s been a pleasant day
walking along with You
on the narrow way.

Thank You for being with me,
for holding my hand
for lifting me up
when I thought I couldn’t stand.

Good night Lord,
this day was beautiful
the grace You gave me
was more than bountiful.

Thank You for blessing me,
with each daily provision
for keeping me always
right within Your vision.

Good night lord,
let’s do this again tomorrow
if from You another day . . .
will allow me to borrow!

~~~~~~~

Psalm 42:8

“Yet the Lord will command
his lovingkindness in the
day time, and in the night
his song shall be with me,
and my prayer unto the
God of my life.”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2018
Deborah Ann Belka

Our Daily Mission ~

When with God we’re repentant,
and fall under His submission
praise and thanksgiving . . .
will become our daily mission.

For, those who trust God,
know all will be Okay
no matter what may come
or what He sends our way.

When with God we’re humble,
and self-denial is the rule
our thanksgiving for all things
will be our spiritual fuel.

For, those who are hopeful,
know God won’t send anything
that would ever keep them
from Him worshiping.

When with God our attitudes,
are positive and confident
our praise and thanks to Him
will be in our lives, dominate!

~~~~~~~~~~~

1 Thessalonians 5:18

“In every thing give thanks:
for this is the will of God
in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2018
Deborah Ann Belka

Rejoicing Always ~

It’s hard to be rejoicing,
when things aren’t going right
it hard to give God thanks . . .
with so many battles to fight.

It’s hard to see God’s hand,
in the middle of the pain
it hard to be grateful
when all your joy is drained.

But we who have Jesus,
living inside of us
know how important it is
in Him to always trust.

For, to always be rejoicing,
takes prayer continually
and then our thanks to God
will come unceasingly.

It’s hard to be rejoicing,
with all that life brings . . .
but, we know it’s God will
to be thankful for all things!

~~~~~~~~

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

“Rejoice always,
pray without ceasing,
give thanks in all circumstances;
for this is the will of God
in Christ Jesus for you.”

Copyright 2017
Deborah Ann Belka

Always Something To Be Thankful For ~

There is always something,
to be thankful for
all you have to do . . .
is be willing to explore.

If you will open up,
your heart and your mind
all kinds of blessings
you will be able to find.

Some are so small,
they don’t get our attention
but, for each of them
God has a good intention.

Some are so obvious,
you don’t need to search far
for everyone can see them
from right where they are.

Whether our blessings
are big or if they are small
we need to be thankful . . .
to God who supplies them all.

Yes, there’s always something,
for us to be thankful for
and we need to be grateful
when God sends us more!

~~~~~~~~~

Ephesians 5:20

Giving thanks always
for all things
unto God and the Father
in the name of our
Lord Jesus Christ;”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2017
Deborah Ann Belka

Sticky Note to God 11.08.17

One Blessed, Single Plateful ~

On Thanksgiving day this year,
before the turkey starts roasting
my thanks, I will be singing
for the dinner I’ll be hosting.

I will set the dining table,
with the gratitude I feel
before anyone comes
to feast upon the meal.

I will spread the hope,
that I’m feeling inside
before I even serve . . .
the food that God supplied.

I will polish up on all,
the reasons I’m thankful
before I even dish up
one blessed, single plateful.

On Thanksgiving day this year,
before the food I present
I will let everyone know . . .
just why I am so content!

~~~~~~~~~

1 Timothy 6:8

“And having food and raiment
let us be therewith content.”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2017
Deborah Ann Belka

Thankful In Every Season ~

You don’t need a season,
to be thankful . . .
every day of the year
you can be grateful.

You can all year-long,
bless God with your praise
your gratitude to Him
you can daily raise.

It doesn’t have to be,
just on Thanksgiving day
your gratitude to God
you can always display.

You can sing anytime,
to Him your appreciation
it does not have to be . . .
a holiday celebration.

Whether you are rich,
or if you may be poor
for and in everything
let your thanksgivings pour.

You can be thankful,
every day of the year
for your gratefulness . . .
God always wants to hear!

~~~~~~~

Psalm 68:19

“Blessed be the Lord,
who daily loadeth us
with benefits,
even the God of
our salvation. Selah.”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2017
Deborah Ann Belka

Thankful For the Right Reasons ~

Lord, as I enter into,
the season of Thanksgiving
may I do so without . . .
any qualms or misgivings.

May I be grateful,
for all You’ve given me
especially for the things
I am still yet to see.

May I be satisfied,
with all I have got
may I be content
with what I have not.

May I be appreciative,
for Your every blessing
may I be at peace with . . .
those I’ll not be getting.

Lord, as I enter into,
Thanksgiving’s season
may I be truly thankful
for all the right reasons!

~~~~~~~~~~~

Ephesians 5:20

“Giving thanks always
for all things unto
God and the Father
in the name of our
Lord Jesus Christ;”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2017
Deborah Ann Belka

Prayer Requires ~

Our prayers require,
our perseverance
and a thankful heart
to fuel our endurance.

For our supplications,
to a God who knows all
need from grateful lips
to unceasingly fall.

When we’ve no words,
to utter or to speak
when our groanings turn
ineffective and weak.

The Holy Spirit,
for us will intercede
and an indebted heart
we are going to need.

Our prayers require,
our praise and thanksgiving
to a God that’s always been
trusting and forgiving!

~~~~~~~

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

“Rejoice evermore.
Pray without ceasing.
In every thing give thanks:
for this is the will of God
in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

Romans 8:26

Likewise the Spirit also helpeth
our infirmities:
for we know not what we should pray
for as we ought: but the Spirit itself
maketh intercession for us with
groanings which cannot be uttered.

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright2017
Deborah Ann Belka

The Voice of Thanksgiving ~

May the voice of thanksgiving,
be heard joyfully today . . .
may words of gratefulness
be sung heartily as we pray.

May our heartfelt thoughts,
offer God His due praise
may we be grateful
as our thanks to Him we raise.

May the voice of gratitude,
be heard loud and clear
may our humble thanks
be detected by every ear.

May our praise be sung,
at our dinner table today
may our thanks transcend
beyond Thanksgiving Day.

May the voice of thanksgiving,
be our joyful noise today . . .
may our words of gratitude
be heard by God everyday!

~~~~~~~

Psalm 66:1

“Make a joyful noise unto God,
all ye lands:”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2016
Deborah Ann Belka

~ Have a very Blessed Thanksgiving ~

Give A Joyful Shout ~

May you give a joyful shout,
on this Thanksgiving Day
may your elation be seen
as you go about your way.

May gladness fill your heart,
for all God has given
may you remind yourself
just why you are forgiven.

May your thankfulness flow,
in a chorus of gratitude
may the joy of your salvation
reflect in your attitude.

May your praise be heard,
across Thanksgiving’s table
may you proclaim to all
God supplies our every staple.

May you give a joyful shout,
one filled with gratefulness
may you give God due thanks
for His loving graciousness!

~~~~~~~~~~~

Psalm 32.11

“Be glad in the Lord,
and rejoice, ye righteous:
and shout for joy,
all ye that are upright
in heart.”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2016
Deborah Ann Belka

Grateful Every Day ~

We don’t need a special day,
to show we are thankful
for every day to God . . .
we need to be grateful.

We can come together,
any day of the year
and share the cause behind
our joy and good cheer.

We can give our thanks,
no matter the season
a special holiday
needn’t be our only reason.

We can enter into,
the gates of thanksgiving
anytime, anywhere
without a single misgiving.

For, God doesn’t care,
when or how we show
our thankfulness to Him
He just wants to know!

~~~~~~~~

Psalm 100:4

“Enter into his gates
with thanksgiving,
and into his courts
with praise:
be thankful unto him,
and bless his name.”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2016
Deborah Ann Belka

Singing My Praise ~

Heavenly Father,
I sing You this song
with the faith of one
who is meek yet strong.

With a grateful heart,
I sing You my praise
and my humble gratitude
to You, I fearfully raise.

Your Spirit inside me,
has set my soul aflame
igniting me to sing
and praise Your holy name.

My song of thankfulness,
to You I raise high
the gratitude I have
flow in these tears I cry.

Heavenly Father,
here is my song to You
thanking You for blessing me
in all for me that You do!

~~~~~~~~~

Psalm 146:2

“While I live will I praise the Lord:
I will sing praises unto my God
while I have any being.”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2016
Deborah Ann Belka

The Bread, Way, Truth and Life ~

As we gather,
on Thanksgiving Day
lets not make light
when our thanks we pray.

We need to be,
genuinely grateful
for all things
we must be truly thankful.

We need to express,
our thanksgiving
with praise and joy
sans any misgiving.

We need to thank,
our Father above
for sending His Son
out His pure love.

We need to express,
our joy and elation
for the freedoms
of our salvation.

We need to convey,
to God each day
our thanks for the Bread
the Truth, Life and Way!

~~~~~~~

John 6:35

“And Jesus said unto them,
I am the bread of life:
he that cometh to me shall
never hunger; and he that
believeth on me shall
never thirst.”

John 14:6

“Jesus saith unto him,
I am the way, the truth,
and the life: no man cometh
unto the Father, but by me.”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2016
Deborah Ann Belka

My Thank You Note To God ~

Dear Father  . . .

Thank You for forming me,
in my mother’s womb
thank You for being
my future Bridegroom.

Thank You for comforting me,
for always being near
thank You for calming
my deepest, darkest fear.

Thank You for being my song,
my strength and my salvation
thank You for saving me
from everlasting damnation.

Thank You for giving me,
Your Word to live by
thank You for collecting
all the tears that I cry.

Thank You for satisfying,
my hunger and thirst
thank You for leading me
to seek Your kingdom first.

Thank You for loving me,
for Your mercy and favor
thank You for the gift of grace
through Your Son, my Savior.

Thank You for making,
my paths straight
thank You for showing me
to the narrow gate.

Thank You for Your Spirit,
who lives inside of me
thank You for the trust
I have placed in Thee.

Thank you for making me,
a child of Your own
thank You for allowing me
to come to Your throne.

Thank you for the trials,
that come my way
thank You for the promise
of a more peaceful day.

Thank You for forming me,
in my mother’ womb . . .
thank You in Your mansion
for reserving me a room!

~~~~~~~

Psalm 126:3

“The Lord hath done
great things for us;
whereof we are glad.”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2016
Deborah Ann Belka

The Language of Gratitude ~

I’m learning a new language,
its called gratitude . . .
and it begins with having
a thankful attitude.

Its vocabulary,
is easy to understand
for gratitude is as simple as
offering a helping hand.

I don’t have to say any words,
or even write them down
for gratitude can be heard
without making a single sound.

There isn’t a special course,
to study or memorize
for gratitude can be picked up
by hearing others cries.

This dialect is universal,
anyone can speak it
for it is the language
of the Holy Spirit!

~~~~~~

Colossians 3:17

“And whatsoever ye do
in word or deed, do all
in the name of the
Lord Jesus, giving
thanks to God and
the Father by him.”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2016
Deborah Ann Belka

The Merry Heart ~

The merry heart,
in God has peace
its full of joy
that does not cease.

It wears a smile,
even when its sad
for the joyful heart
is always glad.

The merry heart,
exudes cheerfulness
its full of delight
imparts happiness.

It trusts in God,
in and for all things
for it is thankful
for whatever He brings.

The merry heart,
has a living hope
its full of joy . . .
it refuses to mope!

~~~~~~~~

Proverbs 17:22

“A merry heart doeth good
like a medicine:
but a broken spirit
drieth the bones.”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2016
Deborah Ann Belka

New Songs of Joy ~

New songs of joy,
to You, Lord I raise
songs of thanksgiving
worship and praise.

New songs of hope,
afresh and anew
songs of the love
I have Lord, for You.

New songs of faith,
dance in my head
whether I be up
or still in my bed.

New songs of trust,
to You, Lord I sing
gleefully I proclaim
You as my King.

New songs of joy,
Lord, to You I raise
for You are worthy
of my jubilant praise!

~~~~~~

Psalm 149. 1-5

” Praise ye the Lord.
Sing unto the Lord
a new song, and his
praise in the
congregation of saints.

Let Israel rejoice in him
that made him: let the
children of Zion be
joyful in their King.

Let them praise his name
in the dance: let them
sing praises unto him
with the timbrel and harp.

For the Lord taketh
pleasure in his people:
he will beautify
the meek with salvation.

Let the saints be joyful
in glory: let them
sing aloud upon their beds.”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2016
Deborah Ann Belka

Blissfulness ~

There is a place of calm,
a spot where all can find
peace and tranquility
to fill the heart and mind.

You won’t have to travel,
for it isn’t very far
in fact you can reach it
from right where you are.

Just close off the world,
shut down its interference
then open up yourself
to the Spirit’s influence.

Let Him flood your soul,
with His peacefulness
so He can fill your mind
with joy and gratefulness.

Once you feel it flow,
your heart will begin to sing
of the future blissfulness
Jesus, is going to bring!

~~~~~~~~~~~

Romans 14:17

“For the kingdom of God
is not meat and drink;
but righteousness,
and peace, and joy
in the Holy Ghost.”

King James Version
Public Domain

Copyright 2016
Deborah Ann Belka

Forget the Turkey ~

Forget about the turkey,
the dressing and the sides
forget about the pumpkin
pecan or chocolate pies.

Instead lift up your voice,
with shouts of joy and praise
to God your loving Father
let your thanksgiving raise.

Forget about the cleaning,
the flowers and table setting
forget about all the stuff . . .
over which you’re sweating.

Instead show the Lord,
your genuine gratitude
give your thanks to Jesus
for His gracious servitude.

Forget about the dinner,
and cooking that big bird . . .
instead let your song of praise
to God,  be forever heard!

~~~~~~~~

Psalm 95:1-2

O come, let us sing unto the Lord:
 let us make a joyful noise to the
rock of our salvation.

 Let us come before his presence
with thanksgiving, and make a joyful
 noise unto him with psalms.

King James Version
by Public Domain

Copyright 2015
Deborah Ann Belka

Heartfelt Gratitude

Lord, may I always have,
an appreciative attitude
one filled with adoration
thanksgiving and gratitude.

May I always be grateful,
whether sick or healthy
may I always be thankful
be I penniless or wealthy.

Lord, may I be thankful,
to You, for all things
happy with the provision
Your daily grace brings.

May I always be glad,
to receive Your benefits
may my praise to You
to the world be evident.

Lord, may I always have,
a heartfelt gratitude . . .
coursing through my life
gushing out in my attitude!

~~~~~~~

Ephesians 5:20

“Giving thanks always for all things
unto God and the Father in the
name of our Lord Jesus Christ;”

King James Version
by Public Domain

Copyright 2015
Deborah Ann Belka

Thank You God ~

Thank you God,
for all You’ve done
for the gift of salvation
through Your only Son.

For the grace,
You knew I’d need
for Your Spirit
who’s here to lead.

Thank You God,
for Your mercy tender
for being my soul
and heart mender.

For Your love,
which brings me peace
for Your compassion
that does not cease.

Thank You God,
for all You are doing
that my life to You . . .
was worth pursuing!

~~~~~~~~

Psalm 118:1

“O give thanks unto the Lord;
for he is good: because his mercy
 endureth for ever.”

King James Version
by Public Domain

Copyright 2015
Deborah Ann Belka

A Symphony of Praise ~

Lord, may I be ever thankful,
today and all year though
may praise and thanksgiving
come daily, from me to You.

May I always be made aware,
of all You have done for me
may I never lose my gratitude
or the love I have for Thee.

May I sing each morning,
a symphony of song and praise
may I lift up my whole heart
as my gratitude, to You I raise.

May I always remember,
the blessings, You have given
may I forever be mindful
You’re the reason, I’m forgiven.

Lord, may I be ever thankful,
to You in every single way
may praise be on my lips . . .
every moment of my day!

~~~~~~~~~~~

Psalm 9:1

” I will praise thee, O Lord, with my whole heart;
I will shew forth all thy marvellous works.”

King James Version
by Public Domain

Copyright 2014
Deborah Ann Belka

Sticky Note to God 11.20.14

Thankful 8766/365

Why we Give Thanks . . .

Because His mercy endures for ever
To Pay our vows to the most High
In remembrance of His holiness
To make known His deeds
It is good to give thanks
It is the fruit of our lips
To declare His works
To magnify Him
For He is good
For His glory
To Bless Him

 
We are thankful for . . .

Being partakers of the inheritance of the saints
The grace of God we have though Jesus Christ
The victory through our Lord Jesus Christ
The peace of God ruling in your hearts
God causes us to triumph in Christ
For salvation that is in the Lord
His wisdom and might
His wondrous works
All things

Who is to give thanks . . .

All the people
and sheep
of His pasture

How are we to give thanks . . .

With joy and gladness and the voice of melody
With cymbals, psalteries, and with harps
Making a joyful noise unto Him
Singing praise unto His name
In the great congregation
Publish with our voice
In the house of God
In the morning
At midnight
In prayer
In song
Forever

~~

Psalm 100:4

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving,
and into his courts with praise:
be thankful unto him, and bless his name.”

King James Version
by Public Domain

~~~~~~~~~~~

There are so many reasons to be thankful.
There are  8766 hours a year ~ how many of them
do we spend in praise and thanksgiving for all that our
heavenly Father has done for us and all He will be doing for us?

Sadly, too few on my part!

Every Day Thanks ~

Thanksgiving Day is upon us,
soon we’ll gather at the table
with family and close friends
to feast on our favorite staples.

We’ll set aside our complaints,
in exchange for gratitude
for everyone, on this one day . . .
puts on a Thanksgiving attitude.

To God we’ll give our thanks,
for family, food and friends
but once the day is over . . .
sadly, our gratitude ends.

We’ll go back to complaining,
to our own self-sufficient way
any gratefulness that we felt . . .
will begin to wither and decay.

Thanksgiving Day is upon us,
soon we’ll gather at the table
and this year I will be praying. . .
gratitude ~ will be a daily staple!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ephesians 5:20

“Giving thanks always for all things
unto God and the Father in the name
of our Lord Jesus Christ;”

King James Version
by Public Domain

Copyright 2014
Deborah Ann Belka

Daily Praise ~

Each new day I begin,
I start it off with praise
to the Lord my God . . .
my gratitude I raise.

I thank my God daily,
for all He has supplied
I can’t tell Him enough
how much I am obliged.

My gratitude is ongoing,
as I go about my day
I thank Him for the blessings
He showers on my way.

I’m grateful for His mercy,
His every good, perfect gift
unto my Lord and Savior
my thankfulness I lift.

As I thank God for being,
the powerful, wise creator
my gratefulness to Him . . .
grows ever-more greater!

~~~~~~~~~~~

Psalm 35:28

“And my tongue shall speak of thy righteousness
and of thy praise all the day long.”

King James Version
by Public Domain

King James Version
by Public Domain

Copyright 2014
Deborah Ann Belka

Eternally Grateful ~

Oh, Lord when I mediate,
on Your tender mercy . . .
my heart for You becomes
ever-more thirsty.

I want to drink in,
all of Your compassion . . .
I want to bottle up
each drop of Your passion.

Oh, Lord when I ponder,
on Your abundant grace . . .
I cannot, but help to fall
down on my thankful face.

Not out of shame,
but, out of respect and fear
for, Your eternal love for me
makes my eyes well and tear.

Oh, Lord when I concentrate,
on Your faithfulness . . .
my hearts swells for you
with eternal gratefulness!

~~~~~~~~~

Psalm 100:4-5

“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving,
and into his courts with praise:
be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting;
 and his truth endureth to all generations.

King James Version
by Public Domain

Copyright 2014
Deborah Ann Belka

Joy in Suffering?

How could there be joy in suffering,
what good can come from pain?
How can there be rejoicing,
when there’s only loss, and not gain?

How could there be thanksgiving,
what good can come from tribulation?
How can there be gratefulness,
when there’s only deep affliction?

How could there be praise,
what good can come from misery?
How can there be worship,
when there’s no longer liberty?

How could there be gladness,
what good can come from persecution?
How can there be happiness,
when there’s some facing execution?

How could there be joy in suffering,
what good can come from all this pain?
Ah, is it because we believe . . .
one day, Jesus will come to reign?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

1 Peter 1:6-7

“Wherein ye greatly rejoice,
though now for a season,
if need be, ye are in heaviness
through manifold temptations:

That the trial of your faith,
being much more precious
 than of gold that perisheth,
though it be tried with fire,
might be found unto praise
and honour and glory at the
appearing of Jesus Christ:”

King James Version
by Public Domain

Gracious Gratitude ~

Not just on Thanksgiving,
but every day of the year
give God your heartfelt praise
and it will bring you cheer.

For when we are thankful,
the entire year through
joy will flood our hearts
spilling over in all we do.

Every minute of the day,
thank God for His grace
every second you’re alive
praise His holy face.

Give Him your thanksgiving,
with a heart that’s forthright
and in the eyes of the Lord
you’ll be a pleasure and delight.

So, everyone let’s show Him,
our gracious gratitude . . .
today and all year through
with a thankful attitude!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

1 Thessalonians 5:18
King James Version

“In every thing give thanks:
for this is the will of God
in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

Copyright 2013
Deborah Ann Belka

Thankful ~

Lord, I am so very thankful,
for all You’ve given me
for giving me the eyes of faith
so Your blessings I could see.

Thankful for each season,
You have brought me though
thankful for the cross
that keeps me close to You.

Thankful for the Good Word,
so I may study and read
thankful that I have learned
it’s only You I really need.

Thankful for the good days,
and the bad ones too
thankful that no matter what
they all led me right to You.

Thankful You’re always there,
to listen to my prayers
thankful I can talk to You
and give You all my cares

Thankful for Your grace,
for Your love bountiful
and I want You to know
I think Your wonderful!

~~~~~~~~

Psalm 105:1-5
King James Version

“O give thanks unto the LORD; call upon his name:
make known his deeds among the people.
Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him:
talk ye of all his wondrous works.
Glory ye in his holy name:
let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD.
Seek the LORD, and his strength:
seek his face evermore.
Remember his marvellous works that he hath done;
his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;”

Copyright 2013
Deborah Ann Belka

Our Plate of Goodness ~

I love this time of year,
with Thanksgiving just ahead
it reminds me of some facts
in the Bible I have read . . .

In all things be grateful,
let joy and praise flow out of you
for everything be thankful
give God the glory He is due.

Make peacefulness your habitation,
let your gentleness be known
be kind, tender-hearted and forgiving
never be the first to cast a stone.

Extend a hand to the needy,
let charity be your perfect gift
help all those who have not
bring back to God those adrift.

Show others your appreciation,
let them see your gratitude
bless them for their helpfulness
be not selfish in your attitude.

Reach out to the sick and hurting,
let them see Jesus’ true compassion
show all acts of grace and mercy
let not the sun go down on your passion.

Be content with all that you have,
rejoice in whatever is your state
be satisfied with all of the goodness
God places each day on your plate.

In everything be thankful,
let your praise be heard by all
in everything be grateful
let your joy be seen by all!

~~~~~~~~

Ephesians 5:20
King James Version

“Giving thanks always
for all things unto
God and the Father
in the name of our
Lord Jesus Christ;”

Copyright 2013
Deborah Ann Belka

The Fruit of My Lips ~

May the fruit of my lips,
produce many a praise
to God for His faithfulness
and His wondrous ways.

May my lips create music,
generate songs to sing
making a joyful noise
honoring my eternal King.

May the fruit of my lips,
deliver my thankfulness
with hearty hallelujahs
showing my gratefulness.

May my lips dance about,
jump with joy and delight
expressing to the world
hope found in His light.

May the fruit of my lips,
produce many a praise
may my gratitude to God
I forever raise!

~~~~~~~~~~~

Psalm 51:15
King James Version

“O Lord, open thou my lips;
and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.”

Copyright 2013
Deborah Ann Belka

Thankful for What ~

It’s easy to be thankful,
when things are going well
when we are trouble-free
no fears on which to dwell.

But, when burdens become,
crushing and all-consuming
it’s hard to show gratitude
when stress is ever-looming.

It’s difficult to say thank you,
in the middle of our strife
it’s not easy to be grateful
for the trials in this life.

How can we be thankful,
in every single thing
rejoicing in the hardships
that living often brings?

It takes a heart of faith,
an unwavering trust
it take a soul that knows
being prayerful is a must!

~~~~~~~~~

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
King James Version

“Rejoice evermore.
Pray without ceasing.
In every thing give thanks:
for this is the will of God
in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

Copyright 2013
Deborah Ann Belka

Strength of Character ~

It’s easy to be appreciative,
when all is going well
when there is no conflict
upon which to dwell.

But, when times get tough,
we often aren’t thankful
our attitudes don’t reflect
the reasons we are grateful.

It’s in the storms of life,
where we can learn to start
how to grow and develop
gratefulness in our heart.

So when taken off course,
don’t think of it as a detour
be thankful God is creating
in you, strength of character!

~~~~~~~~

James 1:2-3
King James Version

“My brethren, count it all joy
when ye fall into divers temptations;
Knowing this, that the trying of your
faith worketh patience.”

Copyright 2013
Deborah Ann Belka

How Can I Show My Gratitude?

Father, how can I show my gratitude,
my gratefulness for all You’ve done
how can I show my thankfulness
for the eternal gift of Your Son?

What can I do to repay You,
for the kindness You’ve given me
what can I give back to You
so my appreciation You can see?

How can I render my thanksgiving,
the sense of my true gratification
how can I ever prove to You
the full delight of my satisfaction?

Father, how can I show my gratitude,
my gratefulness for all You do
how can I show my thankfulness
if I am not always praising You?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Psalm 42:4
King James Version

“When I remember these things, I pour out my
soul in me: for I had gone with the multitude,
I went with them to the house of God, with
the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude
that kept holyday.”

Copyright 2013
Deborah Ann Belka

Sing Your Praise ~

O sing of God’s goodness,
sing of His grace
sing about His mercies
for all to embrace.

Give God the glory,
give Him your praise
sing of the Savior
for you He raised.

Sing in your car,
sing in your home
sing in your shower
sing on the phone.

Sing in the morning,
sing in the night
sing of God’s wonder
sing of His light.

O sing to God’s honor,
sing of His name
today, tomorrow, forever
He’s always the same.

Sing while you work,
sing while you play
sing in the evening
sing through the day.

Sing in the storm,
sing in the calm
sing about His peace
sing of His healing balm.

O sing of God’s goodness,
sing ~ go ahead and sing
sing of His mercies
and the love He brings.

Give God the glory,
make Him your song
sing about your Savior
all the day long!

~~~~

Psalm 96:1-3
King James Version

“O sing
unto the Lord a new song:
sing unto the Lord,
all the earth. Sing unto the Lord,
bless his name;
shew forth his salvation
from day to day.
Declare his glory among
the heathen, his wonders
among all people.

Copyright 2013
Deborah Ann Belka

Count All Your Blessings ~

Count all your blessings,
each and every blessed one
add them all together
and be grateful for the sum.

Be thankful for all you have,
demonstrate your gratitude
let your appreciation
reflect in your attitude.

Appreciate your wealth,
no matter how great or small
present your gratefulness
to God who supplies it all.

Let your thankfulness,
spread across the land
show your indebtedness
by lending a helpful hand.

Count all your blessings,
so many have not a one . . .
with someone share yours
and give glory to His Son!

~~~~~~~~

Proverbs 22:16
King James Version

“He that oppresseth the poor
to increase his riches,
and he that giveth to the rich,
shall surely come to want.”

Copyright 2013
Deborah Ann Belka

A Plate of Grace ~

Come this Thanksgiving . . .
there will be no turkey with dressing
there will only be a plate of gratitude
served with God’s many blessings.

As a substitute for candied yams,
we are going to feast on His kindness
and taste the sweetness of His favor
as we reflect on His loving guidance.

There will be no rolls and butter,
instead, we’ll eat of the Bread of Life
and with gratitude we’ll give our thanks
that we no longer live in hopeless strife.

In the place of creamy mashed potatoes,
there will be praise piled just as high
and we will sing to Him our adoration
instead of eating pumpkin pie.

The only beverage we will drink,
will be from the one True Vine
and with sanctification on our lips
Jesus’ sacrifice will be as sweet as wine.

Come this Thanksgiving . . .
I’m not making a traditional dinner
I’ll only be serving the grace of God . . .
to those I know ~ who are still a sinner!

~~~~~~~

2 Corinthians 12:9
King James Version

“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient
for thee: for my strength is made perfect in
weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather
glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ
may rest upon me.”

Copyright 2012
Deborah Ann Belka

Oh, Sing My Soul Sing ~

Sing, oh my soul,
get down on your knees
sing songs of praises
oh, sing my soul, sing.

Sing of His goodness,
His faithfulness too
sing of His kindness
oh, sing my soul, sing.

Sing of His mercy,
lift your arms in the air
sing of His compassion
oh, sing my soul, sing.

Sing of His grace,
His forgiveness true
sing of His salvation
oh, sing my soul, sing.

Sing of His love,
lift up your voice
sing of His splendor
oh, sing my soul, sing.

Sing of His wonder,
sing for His delight
sing of His glory
oh, sing my soul, sing.

Sing, oh my soul,
get down on your knees
lift up your voice
oh, sing my soul, sing!

~~~~~~~~

Psalm 7:17
King James Version

“I will praise the LORD according to His
righteousness, and will sing praise to the
name of the Lord Most High.”

Copyright 2012
Deborah Ann Belka

Singing My Praise ~

Sometimes I want to stand,
on the highest hill . . .
raise my hands to the Lord
so I can tell Him how I feel.

I want to shout out my love,
hear His echo back at me
I want to close my eyes tight
until His face is all I see.

Sometimes I want to be alone,
on the tallest mountain top
sing my praises to the Lord
never wishing for them to stop.

I want to show my gratefulness,
with a standing ovation
I want to shout out my thanks
so He’ll know my appreciation.

Sometimes I want to stand,
and soak in His peace . . .
I want to raise my hands upwards
and my praise just release!

~~~~~~~~~

Psalm 57:7
King James Version

“My heart is fixed,
O God, my heart is fixed
I will sing and give praise.”

Copyright 2012
Deborah Ann Belka

I Love You, Lord ~

Lord, I give my life to Thee,
for the rest of my days
to you Lord ~ I vow
to follow all Your ways.

I will honor Thee my Lord,
respect each of Your laws
I’ll be obedient to Thee
as You correct all my flaws.

I will obey Thee my Lord,
follow Your instructions
I will conform to Thee
as I follow Your directions.

I will praise Thee my Lord,
for better or for worse
I will worship Thee
in the good and adverse.

I will glorify Thee my Lord,
in illness and in health
I will be grateful to Thee
for deficiency or for wealth.

I will love Thee my Lord,
with a love that is true
I will cherish Thee
and put my trust in You.

Lord, I give my life to Thee,
I offer You my whole heart
and pray till my death . . .
we will never be apart!

~~~~~~~

Psalm 8:1
King James Version

“I will love thee, O Lord, my strength.”

Copyright 2012
Deborah Ann Belka