Communication of God's Goodness... The X Factor Devotional - Day Thirty Six - March 1, 20210

"Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you."
Mark 5:19

Jesus spoke these words after casting demons out of a man from Gadarene.  His command was simple:  Go and tell others what I have done for you.  What a powerful reminder this gives us of the need to express God’s goodness to others—even in public settings.

All believers face the danger of forgetting "how much the Lord has done for us."  Our spiritual journey is a great opportunity for us to strengthen and renew our appreciation to a good God.  Communicating gratitude is important for at least two reasons:

1. It makes us more reliant on God.  Romans 1:21 tells of those who “although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him.”  Thankfulness occurs inwardly, in what our heart expresses.  Glorifying God happens publicly, in what our mouth confesses.  Public expressions of gratitude strengthen our commitment to God while counteracting our human tendency to self-sufficiency and self-reliance.
2. It has a profound impact on those around us.  Family and friends need to hear our successes are not of our own making, but we are beneficiaries of the goodness of God.  Read David’s words in 1 Chronicles 29:11-13 to see how his gratitude set in motion a great celebration of sacrifice and praise among God’s people.

Prayer Focus: Following David’s example, take the time to identify some examples of God’s goodness in your life and then express your gratitude to God in the presence of a friend or family member today!  Don’t delay.  Just step up and do it.  Go tell your family or a friend how much the Lord has done for you.  You’ll grow… and be glad you did!