Goodness of God: The Reason for Our Gratitude

Devotional, Scripture Cultivations

October 30, 2023

Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father

James 1:17

In this season when the sun dips lower, and the air whispers stories of crisp beginnings, we are invited to again tread the sacred path of thanksgiving. Yet, let us this year, not merely skim the surface of gratitude; let us plunge deep into the vast ocean of God’s goodness that envelops us – the wellspring of our thanksgiving. The reason for our gratitude.

In James 1:17, we discover a powerful reminder that every good and perfect gift in our lives finds its source in God. We can trace His goodness woven through the tapestry of scripture, and if we look with open hearts, we’ll see it unfurl in our daily lives too.

Let us awaken our souls to the symphony of His goodness, weaving it into every facet of our existence, from grand moments to the smallest details. Here are a few example of His kindness that often elude us as unmistakable gifts from His hand.

Want help focusing on the many ways God blesses you?

My friend, Twyla Franz is hosting a wonderful challenge called the “Thank Somebody Challenge.” Go check it out.

Here are your cultivations

You have lots of options! Start by printing off the Scripture Cultivations Plan for free.

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And for some community vibes, grab a cuppa and hop over to the FIGS Community Facebook Group.

What are Scripture Cultivations?

If you’re new to the Figs Community, you may be wondering why I call them Scripture Cultivations instead of a Scripture Writing Plan or Scripture Reading Plan. Hop on over to this page to find out more.

Have you ever received a message from a friend just when you needed it most?
Or heard a tough but necessary truth from someone who cared enough to share it?
Maybe a song on the radio seemed to echo your innermost thoughts, offering you comfort and companionship.

These instances, often dismissed as serendipity or coincidence, are, in truth, glimmering evidence of God’s love.

His kindness.
His goodness.

During my time as the Executive Director of PULSE Ministries, I witnessed the goodness of God at every turn. When we needed to connect with city managers, property owners, or pastors, it wasn’t a pursuit – God orchestrated those meetings effortlessly. For seven years, whatever we needed to do the work He’d given us, He provided. And always in such fun and unexpected ways.

When your heart is attuned to His rhythm, you’ll witness His goodness sweeping ahead of you, enfolding you, and greeting you at every twist and turn.

This month, our Scripture Cultivations will shepherd us, refining our skill to behold the goodness of God, allowing gratitude to cascade from hearts overflowing with blessings.

As my friend Twyla Franz beautifully puts it, “Gratitude Is Not Just a November Thing.” To accompany you as you embrace gratitude year-round, we’re including her fun challenge with our cultivations for this month. And…she’s hosting a giveaway. I’ll share the info below.

Okay Figs, Let’s journey together, exploring the amazing depths of God’s grace in our lives. Join us in cultivating a heart of thankfulness.

Cultivating Your Soul

Friend, my heart overflows with gratitude for you. YOU are an evidence of God’s goodness in my life.

May your eyes be opened to the countless blessings that surround you daily. May you be reminded of God’s love and care, often tucked into the seemingly ordinary moments of life. And may your heart brim with gratitude that overflows far beyond the month of November.

Cultivating Prayer

1. Take a moment to focus your heart on the Goodness of God.
2. Invite the Holy Spirit to gently stir your heart, allowing you to recall a time when God graced you with His goodness.
3. Ask Holy Spirit to increase your awareness of God’s goodness in your daily life.