I wrote a book called Out of the Desert to help believers immerse themselves in the life God fully intended for all of us. In the book, I talk about how I like to start each day in prayer. But beginning the day with prayerful thanksgiving isn’t always easy. It takes practice and determination.

For years, my prayers were filled more with complaints than they were praise. I would say, “Lord, I feel overwhelmed. There are so many temptations. I hope I don’t fail You today.” Then one day a friend of mine encouraged me and others to pray with gratitude and a positive spirit. I made a conscious effort to pray with thanksgiving, as it says in Philippians 4:6, which states “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

My prayers changed. I started with “Thank you, Lord Jesus, for this new day! I know I am weak, but you are strong. Thank you that you live in me!” As I began to pray with thanksgiving, I gained confidence that God is truly with me and in me in every situation. I became more aware of God’s presence and power in my life. I encourage you to pray this week with thanksgiving. Watch as God reveals his power and might to you—so that together, you and He can reach your world with the Good News.

This is Luis Palau.