Let Us Give Thanks and Praise!

Scripture readings:

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the lands!
Serve the Lord with gladness!
Come into his presence with singing!

Know the Lord is God!
It is he that made us and we are his;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him, bless his name!

For the Lord is good:
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations.

(Psalms 100)

Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, Rejoice. Let all know your forbearance. The Lord is at hand. Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:4-9)

Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18)

What are your thanks and praises?

I thank God for the love of Dwight Steven. For the sensible country I live in, whose government, even under pressure, does not discriminate.

Adrian

 

I give God thanks for twenty years of love and joy with my wonderful spouse, Ken. Our hobbies and tastes are as different as night and day: he likes tinkering with electrical stuff, home handicrafts and all sorts of practical things; I can’t program a VCR, but I love to write, and enjoy new and (not-so practical) experiences like the theatre, art and literature; but our souls hunger for the same sense of peace and spiritual fulfillment. For instance, we NEVER argue. We disagree, of course, but we always “wait out” our anger till we can discuss the problem calmly. Over these many years, we’ve had to yield, compromise, or forget as many disagreements as any other couple, but we have never failed to accept a loving solution. We have never stood in the wayIof one another’s personal interests, and we have always made our “spiritual home” together, with the same church family, wherever that may be. I can’t imagine life without Ken. Thank you, God.

Terry

 

As an ftm transsexual I was fearful that while transitioning and having to come out at work after 15 years of service I thought I would lose my job. I work for a school system and knowing that if news of my situation reached the community the school board may be forced by public outcry to terminate me even though according to my contract they would need just cause. I also know these kind of things could be fabricated.

I prepared myself as best as possible and prepared to face the people. First the Administration was informed and on the same day I met with union leaders and also shared the news with them. I also prayed and stood on the scriptures that stated that we are joint heirs with Christ as well as (like Jesus) I would find favor with God and man. I DID!!!

After coming out I was treated respectfully. I had many staff people come up and encouage me as I was waiting for people to react to the news.I still have my job and even after the news traveled through the school district I was later voted union President. I was so encouraged since I felt these people thought that my life changes would not hinder my role as their representative….and I represent over 200 people.

I give God all the praise for the favor of men and protection that surrounds me. His Word provides it amd I have received His blessing. I am now married and continuing my sevice as union President. I am also thankful for all the people who came out in support of me during this ordeal. His grace is sufficient!

Chris