Principles of approach to God’s presence: Entering His gates with Thanksgiving I
- Admin
- Apr 6
- 2 min read
April 06, 2025
“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name”
- Psalm 100:4 (NIV)
God has always been intentional about how we approach His presence. In Exodus 25:8, He commanded the Israelites to build a sanctuary so that He could dwell among them. He didn’t leave them to guess how it should be done. God instructed Moses to follow a heavenly blueprint for the tabernacle (Revelation 15:5). This earthly tabernacle known as the Tabernacle of Moses was designed to teach His people how to approach Him. One crucial principle it emphasizes is the principle of approach. Over the next few devotionals, we will reflect on each step of this process.
Today, we begin by focusing on the first step: entering God's gates with thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving is a powerful spiritual key that opens the gates to God's presence. Psalm 92:1 says, “It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High.” This principle reminds us that when we come to God, we should first acknowledge His goodness and blessings in our lives. Thanksgiving sets the tone for our relationship with Him. It shifts our focus from our problems to His power, from our needs to His abundant provision, and from our worries to His faithfulness. By expressing gratitude, we declare that we trust God and recognize His hand at work in every aspect of our lives.
Thanksgiving is a powerful spiritual key that opens the gates to God's presence.
There is always something to thank God for. We can thank Him for life itself – every breath we take is a gift from Him. We can thank Him for His daily provision, His protection, and His guidance. Perhaps you’ve seen God move in specific ways recently. Maybe He opened a door of opportunity, healed a relationship, or provided for you in a way that you didn’t expect. Even in difficult times, we can thank God for His presence, His strength, and the promise that He is working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). Thanksgiving is not about denying our struggles; it’s about choosing to trust God’s character and faithfulness despite them.
As you reflect on this, take time today to intentionally offer thanksgiving to God. Let your heart overflow with praise. This is how we enter His gates. When we approach God in this way, we position ourselves to experience more of His presence, peace, and joy.
Song of Worship
I will enter His gates with thanksgiving in my heart
I will enter His courts with praise
I will say this is the day that the Lord has made
I will rejoice for He has made me glad.
Prayer - Lord, I thank You for Your goodness, Your faithfulness, and Your constant presence in my life. Help me to cultivate a heart of gratitude and thanksgiving every day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.