If we wanted to jumpstart our life, wishing to improve each day, and desire to end the day feeling lighter, happier, and content, what would we need to do? From many sources (conferences, research, magazines, and books) I have seen a trend of information addressing the harshness of our society. Each case points out that gratitude is a missing element in our lives.
We have become people of entitlement. The accompanying attitude is one of ingratitude. We believe that we are owed something.
Let’s get this straight. The ONLY thing we are owed is an eternity separated from God. We are sinners, who willfully ignore God’s input the majority of the time. Then, when things go the way we designed and collapse, we blame the Lord, suggest He is powerless, and question His goodness. All we deserve is His wrath.
Yet, He loves us. How remarkable! He loves a sinner like me. Not only does He love us, He has provided a way to restore us and give us an abundance of real life.
We need to be grateful. Gratefulness understands that there is a gift involved and we are appreciative. Here are five practical suggestions to consider when being grateful to God (and others).
1. Be aware - Remember the benefits. Take time to notice the good.
2. Be honest - Be real, truly be thankful.
3. Be vocal - Tell someone, we recognize our blessing more as we share them.
4. Be natural - Praise God in a way that is natural for you.
5. Be consistent - Do it daily.
Psalms 103:1-5(NASB) 1 Bless the LORD, O my soul, And all that is within me, bless His holy name. 2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget none of His benefits; 3 Who pardons all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases; 4 Who redeems your life from the pit, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; 5 Who satisfies your years with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle.
We have become people of entitlement. The accompanying attitude is one of ingratitude. We believe that we are owed something.
Let’s get this straight. The ONLY thing we are owed is an eternity separated from God. We are sinners, who willfully ignore God’s input the majority of the time. Then, when things go the way we designed and collapse, we blame the Lord, suggest He is powerless, and question His goodness. All we deserve is His wrath.
Yet, He loves us. How remarkable! He loves a sinner like me. Not only does He love us, He has provided a way to restore us and give us an abundance of real life.
We need to be grateful. Gratefulness understands that there is a gift involved and we are appreciative. Here are five practical suggestions to consider when being grateful to God (and others).
1. Be aware - Remember the benefits. Take time to notice the good.
2. Be honest - Be real, truly be thankful.
3. Be vocal - Tell someone, we recognize our blessing more as we share them.
4. Be natural - Praise God in a way that is natural for you.
5. Be consistent - Do it daily.
Psalms 103:1-5(NASB) 1 Bless the LORD, O my soul, And all that is within me, bless His holy name. 2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget none of His benefits; 3 Who pardons all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases; 4 Who redeems your life from the pit, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; 5 Who satisfies your years with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle.
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