Overflowing Gratitude
Monday, November 11, 2024 by Melissa McLaughlin

The water in our backyard spritzed and sprayed like a center city fountain. But it didn’t come from a hose. Birds in all shapes and sizes waited at the edge of our birdbath with eyes alert. When one flitted away, a new bird dove in.

Each bird plunged its wings and beak into the water then arose sloshing droplets in every direction. In rapid succession, a whirl of water doused and drenched their bodies. The birds’ joyful and explosive splattering saturated the area surrounding the birdbath like a spring rain.

I have never seen anything like it. A birdbath splash party of sorts.

Our region is experiencing drought conditions. Therefore, we strive to offer refreshment to the outdoor critters who might be more parched than usual.

That day, however, my husband and I paused in total awe. God granted us a rare peek into the utter elation and gleeful abandon of birds reveling in the gift of water.

When I think of water, I think of life. We cannot survive without it.

Much like the Living Water of Jesus Christ.

Without His sacrificial blood to atone for our sins and His resurrection victory over death and Satan, we are doomed. Ruined. Literally hopeless.

Yet, for believers in Christ, God floods us with abounding blessings in this life which continue for all eternity.

This is the good news of the gospel! We will never hear better news than this!

May our hearts erupt with jubilation! May we lift our hands and voices in total praise to the Lord who made a way for rebellious sinners to be cleansed and welcomed into the family of God!

When drought covers the landscape of our hearts with grief, loss, discouragement, or disappointment, I pray we remember the birds.

May our hearts surge with gratitude for God’s common graces like fresh water, healthy food, clothing, shelter, church, and family. Thankfulness can anchor our souls to God when storm waves swell around us.

Further, when we consider our bleak plight without Jesus, may we lift our gaze and dance with sheer delight at the spiritual blessings God lavished on us through our Savior.

In Christ, we are forgiven, chosen, loved, clothed in His righteousness, adopted into His family, seated in heavenly places, blessed in the beloved, called a son and daughter of the Most High God, sealed with the promised Holy Spirit. Blessings upon blessings. Mercy upon mercy. Grace upon grace.

May overflowing gratitude burst from the depths of our souls. How great is our God! And how great a love He showered on us through Jesus!

No matter what else happens in the world around us, as Christians we are exceedingly blessed! We have a reason to rejoice!

May the birds not outdo us in praise!

Here are some Scriptures that remind me to praise the Lord. What helps you remember to be grateful to God?

Psalm 150:6 (ESV) – Let everything that has breath praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!

1 John 3:1 (NIV) – See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!

John 3:16 (NKJV) – For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

Spiritual Life

Join author and teacher, Melissa McLaughlin, and grow in Truthful Grace as we ignite the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit in our hearts, minds, prayers and lives. Grow in Christ, grow in the knowledge of His Word, the Bible, grow the passion in your prayers.

You are God's Masterpiece
Melissa McLaughlin
3/23/2026

Let the Wind of God's Spirit Sweep Over You
Melissa McLaughlin
2/23/2026

How Does the Light of Christ Change Your Heart?
Melissa McLaughlin
2/9/2026

3 Ways to Set Your Affections on Things Above
Melissa McLaughlin
1/26/2026

3 Ways to Shine Christ's Light in the New Year
Melissa McLaughlin
1/12/2026

Half a Walk is Better Than No Walk
Melissa McLaughlin
11/10/2025

You May Be the One
Melissa McLaughlin
11/3/2025

How is God's Spirit Like the Wind?
Melissa McLaughlin
9/15/2025

Are You Stretching for More of God?
Melissa McLaughlin
9/8/2025

Turn On the Light of Christ
Melissa McLaughlin
9/1/2025

Where is God Planting You?
Melissa A. McLaughlin
8/20/2025

Are You Seeking the City That is to Come?
Melissa McLaughlin
7/23/2025