One of the beautiful ways we can worship God is by expressing gratitude for all He has done for us. In scripture, various forms and names of worship are mentioned. Today, let’s delve into the Hebrew word “Towdah” (תוֹדָה), which means “thanksgiving” or “praise.” Towdah is an expression of deep gratitude and reverence towards God.
Here are a few instances of Towdah in the Bible:
- Psalm 50:14: “Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving (תוֹדָה), and fulfill your vows to the Most High.”
- Psalm 95:2: “Let us come before him with thanksgiving (תוֹדָה) and extol him with music and song.”
- Psalm 100:4: “Enter his gates with thanksgiving (תוֹדָה) and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.”
- Psalm 107:22: “Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving (תוֹדָה) and tell of his works with songs of joy.”
These verses underscore the importance of expressing thanksgiving and praise (Towdah) to God for His blessings, provision, and unwavering faithfulness.
Consider King David, who penned many Psalms in the midst of adversity. How could he offer thanks (Towdah) while facing turmoil? David’s secret lay in reflecting on God’s faithfulness. He remembered how God helped him defeat giants, lions, and bears. David focused on God’s goodness and provision, enabling him to trust God fully through life’s trials.
In Psalms 91:1-2, David celebrates God’s protection during troubled times: “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him.“ (Psalms 91:1-2 NLT)
Inspired by David, I will start documenting my gratitude towards God—recording His provision, protection, and blessings. When overwhelmed, I too can worship (Towdah) with thanksgiving and praise, focusing on God’s goodness rather than my circumstances.
Let’s follow David’s example together! Take a moment to write down what you’re thankful for—God’s provision, protection, or blessings. When life feels overwhelming, let’s respond with worship, just as David did, by focusing on God’s goodness and faithfulness.
3 thoughts on “I Choose Today to Worship with Thanksgiving”
Sometimes offering thanksgiving or praise is a sacrifice because of what we are going through. But, when we do that, it does become a blessing as it turns our heart away from ourselves and our circumstances to the goodness of God. What a great reminder!
Yes, Thanksgiving is instrumental in redirecting our focus from ourselves, to the One whose love, provision, and protection is readily available to us! He is worthy of our praise!
Amen!!