May 2000

By Carole Forde

Give thanks to Me in salad days
When gentle breezes blow;
Give thanks to Me at every sunrise;
And when blossoms grow.

Give thanks to Me when moon and stars
Illuminate the dark;
Give thanks to Me when health and wealth
Upon your life embark.

But even UNbelievers bless
Such blessings I bestow;
I ask no more than this from them
For such is all they know.

But your thanksgiving, sons of Mine,
Should be much more mature.
For you should know that every trial
Is sent to make you pure!

Each fiery TRIBULATION works
Salvation in the soul;
The SORROWS and the SUFFERINGS
Have come to make you whole!

From you I want THANKSGIVING
IN YOUR SACRIFICIAL FIRES-
With trusting hearts that only seek
To honor My desires!

For it is when I place you in
These solitary straits
That I desire Thanksgiving
As you enter in My Gates!

When flames engulf your trembling souls
And set your faith ablaze,
That's when I want to see you
In my courts with hearts of praise.

Rejoice at such times, little ones,
And know that I am still
The God of all creation
With a perfect, loving Will!!

For YOU are My PRIORITY!!
My goal is undiminished!
I have no fear of failure
Since My work in you is finished!!!

Be brave, have faith, and be unmoved
In your regard for Me;
For I have pledged My Word
That you are Mine eternally!

Give thanks to Me, My precious ones,
Be trusting in Your Lord;
For when you THANK ME IN ALL THINGS
This brings you great reward!!

Amen.