Despite having written numerous books and provided decades of ministry, Joyce Meyer is still able to compile a new devotional that takes a fresh look at the everyday needs that people have --- needs that can find answers in God and in God's words. In THE POWER OF BEING THANKFUL, Meyer brings together many of the principles that she has presented in previous teachings plus some new insights that combine to focus on the value of thankfulness.

In her Introduction, Meyer says, “Regardless of where you are in your journey with the Lord, I believe THE POWER OF BEING THANKFUL is going to help you begin enjoying your life with Him in a whole new way.” In that connection, it is easy to understand why there are so many devotionals available today. Who doesn't want to discover new ways to enjoy life?

"If you know someone who has been living with negativity and not enjoying life, THE POWER OF BEING THANKFUL would make a wonderful gift."

There are those who consult their daily horoscope faithfully. At the beginning of each day, they check to make sure that the stars and planets are correctly aligned before making important decisions or embarking on a new direction. Others may turn to the Magic 8 Ball that purports to have an answer to every question the seeker may have. Of course, the answers are rather generic: “too soon to tell,” “ask again,” “not today.” Both of these popular methods can be used to help you plan your day. However, neither will give you much help when things don't go as expected or go terribly wrong.

And that's the primary difference between a devotional and a forecaster. While the horoscope and Magic 8 Ball may address something that is anticipated or hoped for, neither gives you any direction or solutions. On the other hand, the premise of the devotional is precisely designed to give you direction and answers based on Biblical principles. These are principles that are almost universally accepted by believers in a Higher Power. For example, some version of “do unto others as you would have them do unto you” is found in most major religions.

Does “being thankful” imply that we should be in denial about tragic circumstances or that we should ignore pain and betrayal? Not at all. The power of being thankful is our faith in who we are thankful to. That is, in whatever circumstance we find ourselves, we have the assurance that God is there for us. And, despite what is going on right now, He has given us much to be thankful for. By focusing on those things and on the promises He has given us, it makes it a little easier to get through the rough patches.

For example, the devotion for January 8th (just about the time we are ready to rethink our New Year's resolutions) is titled “Keep on Keeping On.” Meyer cites Galatians 6:9 in which Paul says, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

If you know someone who has been living with negativity and not enjoying life, THE POWER OF BEING THANKFUL would make a wonderful gift.