17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians3:17
Have you ever had a happy little song get stuck in your head? I had that kiddes song "When I remember that He died for me" a while ago. It can perk up your whole day.
Selwyn Hughes tells the story of a preacher who was well-known for an attitude of gratitude. One cold and miserable Sunday morning he arrived moments before the service started and was sopping wet due to the downpour outside. Being the punctual type he did not tarry to dry himself off, but went into the pulpit dripping wet and cold to start the service. In his opening prayer he started off praying "We thank You Lord..." and after a pause in which the congregation wondered what he could possibly find to give thanks for, he continued "... that not every morning is like this!"
It's a funny story, but it reflects a desire to sincerely give thanks in all circumstances. It is about valuing what we have instead of pining over what we don't have.
Hughes also tells of well-known financier and philanthropist Sir John Templeton who spends his first waking moments thinking of five new things for which he is grateful.
Steven Covey talks about an abundance mentality instead of scarcity mentality. Gratitude recognises that life is rich and full and we should recognise it.
The Old Testament has a song stuck in its head: David taught it to the people, Solomon knew it, it's in four of the psalms and Jeremiah knew it too:
"Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good.
His love endures forever."
A gratitude-attitude points us toward God and underscores His goodness - When we learn to be grateful for all we have it is hard to doubt His goodness!
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Theo Groeneveld theo@emmanuel.org.za
You can see past EmmDevs at http://emmdev.blogspot.com/
