Give Thanks to Him and Praise His Name

"Enter into His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name. For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations." ~Psalm 100:4-5

I cannot read this verse without breaking into song. It takes me back to VBS when I was a kid - we'd all sing this at the top of our lungs as we entered the sanctuary. I know some of the church ladies were SO disapproving (which made us sing/shout even louder) but even though this Psalm is only 5 verses, it resonates with joy and praise and thanksgiving - suitable for loud boisterous voices!  Sing it with me!

“I will enter His gates with thanksgiving in my heart

I will enter His courts with praise

I will say this the day that the Lord has made

I will rejoice for He has made me glad

He has made me glad, He has made me glad

I will rejoice for He has made me glad”

Maybe David sang this as the ark was brought home - such overwhelming emotion flooded them all as the presence of the Lord was back in their midst. Oh, that we would share this same joy and jubilation when we go to church or study at home or pray - all of these things are 'entering His courts'. Even more reason to keep our minds focused on Him!

"Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." ~ Colossians 3:2

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." ~ Philippians 4:8