Be Grateful
If you grew up in the church like me, then you remember when choirs were king. Before praise teams and individual mics, there were grand march-ins, matching robes, and that rich harmony that could fill the whole sanctuary. The silver robes were always saved for Christmas (if you know, you know). And if you know choirs, then you know Walter Hawkins. His 1978 hit “Be Grateful” has been a Black church staple for decades.
What used to be a familiar Sunday tune has become more like a life guide. The elders were right—you really do understand by and by, especially when your life has been filled with “unprecedented events.” From nervously anticipating Y2K to now, watching what feels like a crumbling democracy, Millennials have had our share of challenges, and honestly, we are tired! But as Mr. Hawkins reminded us way back in ’78—God never promised us sunshine.
If we didn’t know God, that reality might just add to the stress that meets us every morning. But because we do know Him, we have hope. Romans 8:18 reminds us that “our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” And Romans 8:28 says, “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” Even when life feels heavy, He’s still working things out behind the scenes.
And yes, the stress of today can make us anxious, and doomscrolling might have us in a chokehold—but we still have so much to thank God for. 1 Peter 5:7 reminds us that He cares for us and invites us to cast all our cares on Him. Psalm 31:19 says, “How great is the goodness You have stored up for those who fear You,” and I take that personally.
So when life feels overwhelming and another breaking news story threatens to steal your joy, remember what Walter said—Be Grateful. Because “the God of all grace… will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast” (1 Peter 5:10). And for that, I am thankful.
What used to be a familiar Sunday tune has become more like a life guide. The elders were right—you really do understand by and by, especially when your life has been filled with “unprecedented events.” From nervously anticipating Y2K to now, watching what feels like a crumbling democracy, Millennials have had our share of challenges, and honestly, we are tired! But as Mr. Hawkins reminded us way back in ’78—God never promised us sunshine.
If we didn’t know God, that reality might just add to the stress that meets us every morning. But because we do know Him, we have hope. Romans 8:18 reminds us that “our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” And Romans 8:28 says, “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” Even when life feels heavy, He’s still working things out behind the scenes.
And yes, the stress of today can make us anxious, and doomscrolling might have us in a chokehold—but we still have so much to thank God for. 1 Peter 5:7 reminds us that He cares for us and invites us to cast all our cares on Him. Psalm 31:19 says, “How great is the goodness You have stored up for those who fear You,” and I take that personally.
So when life feels overwhelming and another breaking news story threatens to steal your joy, remember what Walter said—Be Grateful. Because “the God of all grace… will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast” (1 Peter 5:10). And for that, I am thankful.
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4 Comments
Minister Cook
nWhat a power message about being grateful the need to woʻ9⁹9⁹⁹ sray steadfast and know that God's making
nThank you.for such a powerful message
nAmen ? please vist me 3rd Sunday main coatroom I would like to meet you
nSis Mettrice I Davis
Hallelujah and Amen! Well said Sister Emily! We must, “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
n1 Thessalonians 5:18
Encouraging message. Thank you.
n
Marvelously said Emily, I remember those days as well. And yes, inspired of all that is happening in the earth, I'm Grateful for God's Grace and Care.