Gratitude is one of the most powerful attitudes a Christian can cultivate. As believers, we know that everything we have comes from God: our health, our families, our daily bread, and even the breath in our lungs. When we stop to think about it, we truly have so much for which to be grateful! Psalm 107:1 (NIV) admonishes us, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” This verse reminds us that our gratitude is not dependent on circumstances. God’s goodness is steady, His love is everlasting, and that alone is reason enough to say, “Thank You, Lord!” Even when the day feels long or the bills are stacked high, God’s unchanging love never wavers. Another verse that speaks to gratitude is 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NLT): “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” Notice that the Scripture does not say give thanks for all circumstances, but in them. This means that even when life hands us difficulties, we can still find a reason to be thankful—because God is always with us, working all things together for our good. Now, let me say this—some folks walk around always frowning, grumbling, or pointing out what’s wrong. We even have a few familiar characters like “Brother Gloom and Doom” and “Sister Sour Grapes”! However, gratitude can change our outlook when we allow it to do so. A thankful heart brings joy, peace, fun, and even better relationships with others. Who wants to hang around someone who complains about everything? A person who lives with gratitude brings light and encouragement wherever he or she goes. We express our gratitude to God, not only through our words, but also through our actions. When we serve others, give generously, and worship with sincerity, we are showing God that we recognize His blessings and that we are thankful for them. Gratitude is more than a feeling; it is a lifestyle! Never forget this: Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have. It keeps us humble because we recognize God as the source of all our blessings. It keeps us joyful, because we know that no matter what comes our way, we are never without a reason to give thanks. If you are chronic complainers, today, make the choice to stop acting like “sour grapes,” and start living like grateful saints! “Count your blessings, name them one by one,” and watch your heart overflow with gratitude. Always abound in the faith, and never leave home without Him!
