Protocols, Postures and Power of ThanksgivingНамуна

BE THE ONE WHO RETURNS

In the story of the ten lepers, only one turned back — Jesus noticed and asked, “Where are the nine?” (Luke 17:18, KJV). That question still searches congregations and homes today. I want you to decide, ahead of time, that you will be the one who returns — promptly, publicly, and precisely — to give glory to God. Thanksgiving is not a polite footnote; it is glory returned to the rightful Owner. When you withhold thanks or direct it elsewhere, you misplace glory. Mature saints do not treat mercies as casual; they respond proportionately. Let your words and posture say, “This mercy is weighty to me, and my God will be glorified.”

There is also a corporate dimension to thanksgiving. As a church family, we set apart seasons to appear before the Lord with thanks offerings because remembrance multiplies in community. But even when we gather, thanksgiving remains profoundly personal. No one wore your shoes; no one felt your midnight fears. Do not allow the caution or coolness of others to moderate your response. Refuse the intimidation that whispers, “Tone it down.” The grateful leper did not keep it quiet; he came “with a loud voice” glorifying God (v. 15). Covenant people honour protocol — orderly, decent — but they are never ashamed to magnify the Lord who delivered them.

Practically, set an inner policy: I will return. Write what you are thanking Him for; choose a fitting expression — testimony, offering, visit to honour a channel, a family altar of praise — and do it without delay. Guard your heart at the gate of worship: “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable…” (Psalm 19:14, KJV). Thanksgiving is accepted or rejected first in the heart. Come clean of entitlement and comparison; come full of awe and accuracy. When you live like this, Heaven’s question finds you on the right side of the answer, and your life becomes a memorial of glory given back to God.

THOUGHT TO PONDER: Where has my gratitude gone quiet when it should have been bold? What precise return — words, posture, and gift — will I bring today so that God alone is glorified?

PRAYER: Father, make me the one who returns. Cleanse my motives, strengthen my voice, and receive all glory from my life and thanksgiving, in Jesus’ name. Amen.