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Thankful Praise
In the Word
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever (Psalm 106:1b).
Of the Word
A childhood illness left Helen Keller blind and deaf. Despite her disabilities, Helen learned to speak, read Braille, and write with a specially-made typewriter. In 1904, she graduated with honors from Radcliffe College (now part of Harvard University), then devoted her life to the betterment of people with disabilities. “I thank God for my handicaps,” she said, “for through them, I have found myself, my work, and my God.”
Disabilities and failings in the eyes of the world often become the vehicles God uses to show us ourselves, our work, and His purpose for our lives. Like Helen Keller, we may have significant personal obstacles to conquer, and in so doing, become an encouragement and inspiration to others. Or like her celebrated teacher, Anne Sullivan, we may find ourselves uniquely qualified to help, teach, assist, or care for others with disabilities.
Our Lord says to us, “…My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9b). Praise be to God, for His power works through us all.
Walking with my Lord
Take my weaknesses, O Lord, and let them be the food
That nurtures true humility and heartfelt gratitude.
In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Mustard Seed: Living in Praise. Author: Patricia Mitchell. 11/32 ©2007 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org
Scripture quotations are taken from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
