An Attitude of Gratitude
By soundmindandheart In Uncategorized On June 9, 2015
1 Thessalonians 5:18
In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. NASB
I looked up gratitude online. I found hundreds of quotes for this. Many that were very inspiring, but none were from the Bible. This puzzled me some, so I did a search in the Bible. I found dozens but not hundreds of passages about thankfulness. Why is this topic not spoken of more in the Bible? I believe that God has more important topics like love and forgiveness, but I still think this is an important topic for us to consider.
I see many unhappy, depressed people. When I look at their lives, I see many things that are good. If I get the opportunity to speak with them about these good things, I do and they are encouraged. However, it only seems to last for a short time. Why does this happen? It is like the light being turned on briefly. Things can be seen and appreciated, but then the light is turned off, darkness prevails. Yes, I believe that thankfulness and gratitude are the light that give us happiness and joy. This joy can grow as we are thankful for what God has given us or done for us.
One of my favorite quotes is Have an attitude of gratitude. (What can I say? I like rhymes.) We should be thankful for all that we have. In this country, even those who we deem poor live better that most of the other people in the world. All things should include our health, our homes, our cars, our family, our Church, our friends and on and on. I am thankful for this computer that I blog on and the internet connection that allows me to touch your life with it. Thank you Lord!
Like any other trait that we desire, we must practice it for it to become a habit and a part of our lives. It may seem forced at first, but in time becomes second nature to us. How do we go about this change? There are several ways. The first thing that I suggest is to change how you pray. Begin with praise to the Lord for who He is. I name His traits like love, holiness, faithfulness and on and on. Then thank Him for your blessings which should be detailed and specific. And lastly, ask Him for the things that you want and need. Please end in praise and thankfulness for who and what He is. Notice the difference in how you normally pray and this? It will change your life and attitude. The other thing that I recommend is that you count and say many times per day how you are blessed. Tell those that you come into contact with what God has done for you and how thankful you are for Him and His provision in your life. This should be humble and joyful in presentation. You will encourage yourself, but you will also be an encourager of those in your life.
Psalms 136:1
Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His loving kindness is everlasting. NASB
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May God Bless You!
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