Celebrate what god has done for and in you!

by Paul Sonntag

​     We celebrate birthdays and anniversaries. Shouldn’t we also celebrate the great
things God does in our lives? Just as we mark milestones in our personal lives, I
believe it is also essential to recognize and celebrate God & #39;s works in our spiritual
journey.

Scripture
     Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he
pronounced.& quote – Psalm 105:5 (NIV) In the Bible, we see numerous examples   
of people celebrating God moving in their lives. Abraham built altars after God spoke
significant words to him (Genesis 12:7, 13:14-18).

     Jacob set what is called a pillar of stone to mark the place where God
changed his name to Israel (Genesis 35:14).

     The Israelites celebrated with songs and dancing after crossing the Red Sea and
witnessing the destruction of the Egyptian army (Exodus 15:1-21).

     After 40 years of wandering in the desert, following the crossing the Jordan River
Joshua had one member of each tribe bring a stone to erect a memorial, ensuring
that future generations would remember what God had done (Joshua 4:4-9).

      David wanted to build God’s temple but it was Solomon who was actually allowed
to have the temple constructed. After the temple was dedicated to God Solomon held a
​feast for the entire nation (1 Kings 8:65-66) and what a feast it was, lasting 14 days.

     When God moves in your life, you should take time to celebrate what He has done.
We aren’t going to build an altar and sacrifice animals but whether you value
tangible things or memorable experiences you can use either method to
commemorate God’s wonderful works. We do. For us, each celebration is tailored
to the significance of what God has done. For smaller yet still important
accomplishments we might go out for a nice dinner. For larger celebrations we
have taken special trips to an inn we love on the ocean in Maine. Every visit
reminds us of God & #39;s faithfulness and the great things He has done in our lives.

​     Recently, after God completed a significant financial work in our lives we
purchased a pellet grill. Don’t laugh - every time I make smoked ribs, pulled pork,
or brisket I am reminded of the mighty way God moved in our lives. 

     Don’t be hesitant about celebrating when God does something amazing in your
life. Life is full of challenges, but there are moments when a work is done, and at
those points we should mark the occasions with joy and gratitude. By celebrating
God's works, we not only honor Him but also strengthen our faith and trust in His
continual presence and provision.