Thought I’d throw a short Thanksgiving thought at you. In Hebrews 12:28 it says, “… that we are (presently) receiving a kingdom that is unshakable …” Hebrews lists a chorus of responses to that news. Things like “keep on loving,” “honor marriage,” and  “don’t love money,” just to name a few. In fact, the writer lists about twelve things we can do to aid our faith, as we continue to receive God’s Kingdom.  
 
Oddly enough, one of the last things he sites is “… let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to Him.” (Hebrews 13:15 NLT) It’s another way to say, “Keep a spirit of praise at all times in your heart…” We all get bad news and feel like we are in a corner, and things can seem bleak and we feel morose. Now if you want to walk in God’s Kingdom, under His rule, vested as His heir and undeniably blessed by His hand, then one helpful action: “Sacrifice praise through Jesus.”
 
Yes, you’re right, in those moments, you won’t feel like working up a little “hallelujah.” It won’t come naturally. The whole deal will be a sacrifice, and it works like this: Jesus, You see it all, You know how it began and how it will end. It all looks good to You, so by Your power, I sacrifice what I feel and praise You for what I know You are doing. Jesus, You are a promise keeper, You never forsake. I put my life in Your hands. There you go—continual Thanksgiving.