Her little three year old voice often says, “Thank You!”
Addie’s mama, daddy, and big sister have taught her to say “Please” and “Thank you” when she wants or needs something or is given something. Why is it important to teach children to be thankful?
The Bible is full of verses about being grateful or thankful in response to all the things God has done for us.
Thankfulness to God for our life, blessings, salvation, and hope brings glory to God as well as clothe our minds in a right attitude.
Instead of concentrating on what else we can get, buy, or possess, we concentrate on what we have in the moment. Instead of stressing out over what we don’t have, we rejoice in what we do have. Instead of our attention being scattered over all the desires sparked by advertising, things of the world and temporary possessions, we align our desires with those of God.
Ephesians 5:20-21 says, “giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.”
Philippians 4:4-7 says, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
What marvelous truth!
Colossians 3:15-17 says, “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful…”. And Colossians 4:2 tells us, “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.
I Thessalonians 5:16-18 says, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
To be grateful is to draw close to God. God has given us everything we are and have. To lift up thanks acknowledges that He is the provider and sustainer.
This Thanksgiving, we have an opportunity to concentrate, focus, and experience being grateful! How can we celebrate thankfulness? In prayer to God, meditating on Him and all His blessings.
Make a list of your blessings or what you are thankful for.
Write a thank you note, email, or text to someone to express your thanks to them for who they are to you.
Take some quiet moments to concentrate on all the positive, wonderful things in your life.
Visit someone and express your thanks and gratitude to them.
You can think of many ways to express and develop gratitude in your life and bless the lives of others.
You will be happier if you do.
