Holiday Encouragement To Christians

This week I enjoyed time with my family and extended family during the Thanksgiving holiday. I was also reminded, and felt the subtle pull, of the worldly mindset that seems to creep in during the holiday season.

It's easy to fall into the chaos of laziness, materialism, over-indulgence, etc, that is rampant this time of year, and just 'veg out' and coast along with the world.
So I offer this encouragement to God's people for the holidays: Let our hearts burn hot after the Lord as we close out the year!

When King David set up the worship of God for Israel according to the word of the Lord, he gave this amazing, Spirit-inspired song of praise:

"Oh give thanks to the LORD; call upon his name;
  make known his deeds among the peoples!
Sing to him, sing praises to him;
  tell of all his wondrous works!
Glory in his holy name;
  let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice!
Seek the LORD and his strength;
  seek his presence continually!
Remember the wondrous works that he has done,
  his miracles and the judgments he uttered,
O offspring of Israel his servant,
  children of Jacob, his chosen ones!
(1 Chronicles 16:8-13, ESV)

Seek his presence continually!!! (v11b)

Later in the song David said:

"Say also: “Save us, O God of our salvation, and gather and deliver us from among the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy name and glory in your praise" (1 Chronicles 16:35). Save us so that we may give thanks, and glory in your praise. Praise and Worship and Thanksgiving is the fruit and part of the purpose of our salvation! That we enjoy God's presence and glory forever!

Let's repent of distractions, idols, and low affections for the Lord, and through Christ and his cross and resurrection, let us abide in his presence and give praise and thanks to the Lord!
Hallelujah!